Page 2 of 260
Report on the Deliberations of the
STANDING FINANCE COMMITTEE
Appointed by the
House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands
To Examine the Draft Estimates for the Year 2019
Held at the Office of the House of Assembly in
Road Town
Page 3 of 260
ATTENDING BEFORE THE COMMITTEE...............................................................................10
KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................................................................20
INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................................25
REVENUE ESTIMATES ..............................................................................................................26
CONSTITUTIONALLY ESTABLISHED DEPARTMENTS ................................................33
HEAD 1101 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY .........................................................................................33
HEAD 1202 CABINET OFFICE ..................................................................................................36
HEAD 1303 OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS .............................39
HEAD 1404 COMPLAINTS COMMISSION ..............................................................................47
HEAD 1606 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION………………………………………………….
HEAD 1707 OFFICE OF THE AUDITOR GENERAL ...............................................................50
GOVERNOR’S GROUP .............................................................................................................54
HEAD 2108 OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR ..............................................................................54
HEAD 2109 DEPUTY GOVERNOR‟S OFFICE .........................................................................56
HEAD 2110 HUMAN RESOURCES ...........................................................................................60
HEAD 2112 DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT ...............................................63
HEAD 2113 SUPREME COURT/HEAD 2116 COMMERCIAL COURT..................................67
HEAD 2114 CIVIL REGISTRY AND PASSPORT OFFICE ......................................................68
HEAD 2115 MAGISTRACY ........................................................................................................71
HEAD 2117 ATTORNEY GENERAL CHAMBERS ..................................................................74
HEAD 2118 POLICE ....................................................................................................................76
HEAD 2220 PREMIER‟S OFFICE ...............................................................................................79
SUBHEAD 22204092 INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS ......................................81
HEAD 2221 VIRGIN ISLANDS SHIPPING REGISTRY ...........................................................84
HEAD 2222 CENTRAL STATISTICS OFFICE ..........................................................................86
HEAD 2225 TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ...................................................................88
HEAD 2226 TRADE, INVESTMENT, PROMOTION AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS .............90
HEAD 2227 BVI FINANCE LTD ................................................................................................94
HEAD 2228 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS SECRETARIAT ....................................................98
BVI PORTS AUTHORITY .........................................................................................................100
HEAD 2329 MINISTRY OF FINANCE .....................................................................................103
HEAD 2330 CUSTOMS..............................................................................................................109
HEAD 2331 INLAND REVENUE .............................................................................................116
HEAD 2332 INTERNAL AUDIT ...............................................................................................119
HEAD 2333 POST OFFICE ........................................................................................................123
HEAD 2334 TREASURY OPERATIONS/HEAD 4100 PENSIONS AND GRATUITIES ......127
HEAD 2335 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ........................................................................132
HEAD 2371 MISCELLANEOUS ...............................................................................................135
HEAD 2372 INTERNATIONAL TAX AUTHORITY ..............................................................136
HEAD 2436 MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION ..141
HEAD 2440 LABOUR ................................................................................................................144
HEAD 2470 LAND AND SEABED MANAGEMENT .............................................................148
HEAD 2474 IMMIGRATION .....................................................................................................151
HEAD 2543 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH AFFAIRS, FISHERIES
AND AGRICULTRE...................................................................................................................154
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HEAD 2545 EDUCATION QUALITY AND ASSURANCE SERVICES ................................154
HEAD 2546 PRE-PRIMARY AND PRIMARY EDUCATION ................................................154
HEAD 2548 SECONDARY EDUCATION ................................................................................154
HEAD 2564 TERTIARY, ADULT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION .................................154
HEAD 2544 YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS ........................................................................161
HEAD 2547 DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE ............................................................................164
HEAD 2550 LIBRARY SERVICES ...........................................................................................166
HEAD 2573 AGRICULTURE ....................................................................................................168
HEAD 2573 CONSERVATION AND FISHERIES ...................................................................177
HEAD 2573 BVI FISHING COMPLEX .....................................................................................180
HEAD 2652 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ..............................183
HEAD 2653 AGED CARE SERVICES ......................................................................................185
HEAD 2655 SOCIAL PROTECTION ........................................................................................185
HEAD 2665 PUBLIC HEALTH .................................................................................................185
HEAD 2667 CHILDREN AND FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES ............................................185
HEAD 2668 DISABILITY SERVICES ......................................................................................185
HEAD 2669 COMMUNITY SERVICES ...................................................................................185
HEAD 2654 WASTE MANAGEMENT .....................................................................................188
HEAD 2756 MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION, WORKS AND UTILITIES ....................192
HEAD 2757 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT .............................................................................193
HEAD 2759 FIRE SERVICES ....................................................................................................194
HEAD 2760 WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT ......................................................196
HEAD 2761 MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSING ..........................................................................201
HEAD 2762 PUBLIC WORKS ...................................................................................................203
HEAD 2763 TELEPHONE SERVICES MANAGEMENT........................................................208
BVI ELECTRICITY CORPORATION ......................................................................................210
TAXI AND LIVERY COMMISSION ........................................................................................212
CONTRIBUTIONS TO STATUTORY BOARDS .................................................................214
HEAD 2109 DEPUTY GOVERNOR‟S OFFICE .......................................................................214
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO FINANCIAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY ........................214
HEAD 2220 PREMIER‟S OFFICE .............................................................................................217
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO TOURIST BOARD ................................................................217
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO BVI AIRPORTS AUTHORITY LIMITED...........................220
HEAD 2436 MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION ..223
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO NATIONAL PARKS TRUST ...............................................223
HEAD 2543 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH AFFAIRS,
FISHERIES AND AGRICULTURE ...........................................................................................226
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO RECREATION TRUST.........................................................226
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO H. LAVITY STOUTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE ..............229
HEAD 2652 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ..............................237
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO BVI HEALTH SERVICES AUTHORITY ...........................237
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE ..................................240
HEAD 4300 PUBLIC DEBT .......................................................................................................244
HEAD 321 DEPUTY GOVERNOR‟S OFFICE CAPITAL .......................................................247
HEAD 322 PREMIER‟S OFFICE CAPITAL .............................................................................249
HEAD 323 MINISTRY OF FINANCE CAPITAL .....................................................................250
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HEAD 324 MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION
CAPITAL……………………………………………………………………………… ……….253
HEAD 326 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CAPITAL ..............257
HEAD 327 MINISTRY OF TRANSPORATION, WORKS AND UTILITIES CAPITAL .......258
CONCLUSION ...............……………………………………………………………………….259
APPENDIX ............................................................................................................................260
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HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
REPORT ON THE DELIBERATIONS OF
THE STANDING FINANCE COMMITTEE
APPOINTED BY THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
TO EXAMINE THE DRAFT ESTIMATES FOR THE YEAR 2019
HELD AT THE OFFICE OF THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY IN ROAD TOWN
FROM 5TH, 16TH, 17TH, AND 18TH APRIL, 2019
Honourable Julian Willock - Speaker and Chairman of the Standing Finance
Committee
Hon. Andrew A. Fahie - Premier and Minister of Finance and Member
for the First District
Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley - Deputy Premier and Minister for Education,
Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs
and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
Honourable Kye M. Rymer - Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities
and Member for the Fifth District
Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley - Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and
Immigration and Member for the Ninth District
Honourable Carvin Malone - Minister for Health and Social Development and
Territorial Member
Hon. Shereen D. Flax-Charles - Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial
Member
Hon. Sharie B. de Castro - Junior Minister for Trade and Economic
Development and Territorial Member
Hon. Neville A. Smith - Deputy Speaker, Deputy Chairman of the
Standing Finance Committee and Territorial
Member
Honourable Baba Aziz - Attorney General
Honourable Marlon A. Penn
- Leader of the Opposition and Member for the
Eighth District
Page 7 of 260
Honourable Julian Fraser, RA - Member for the Third District
Honourable Alvera Maduro-Caines - Member for the Sixth District
Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull - Member for the Second District
Mrs. Phyllis Evans - Secretary of the Standing Finance Committee
Page 8 of 260
OFFICERS FROM THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE
Mr. Glenroy Forbes - Financial Secretary
Ms. Alva MCcall - Deputy Financial Secretary
Mr. Ronald Emmanuel - Budget Coordinator
Ms. Tiffany Todman - Budget Analyst
Ms. Rhonda Glasgow - Budget Officer II
Ms. Tuneisha Johnson - Budget Officer I
Mrs. Dawn Alexander Joseph - Policy Analyst
Mrs. Michele Richmond-Phillips - Head, Macro Fiscal Unit/Policy
Analyst
Ms. Sandra Brewley - Financial Analyst
Mrs. Maria Smith-Thomas - Finance and Planning Officer
ATTENDING SECRETARIES
Ms. Khauesten Industrious
-
Acting Deputy Clerk, House of
Assembly
Mrs. Myrna Lennard-Penn
-
Senior Executive Officer, House
of Assembly
Ms. Danika Blyden - Executive Officer, House of
Assembly (on rotation to Disaster
Management)
Ms. Asha Stoutt - Secretary I, House of Assembly
Mrs. Letaye Garrin - Human Resources Manager,
Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and
Agriculture
Mrs. Symone Penn - Acting Human Resources
Manager, Premier‟s Office
Ms. Michelle Bhajan - Acting Private Secretary, Ministry
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of Natural Resources, Labour and
Immigration
Ms. Abbarah Brown - Personal Assistant to the Deputy
Governor
Page 10 of 260
ATTENDING BEFORE THE COMMITTEE
HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Mrs. Phyllis Evans - Clerk, House of Assembly (the Clerk)
Ms. Sharona Pickering - Finance Office, House of Assembly (FO)
CABINET OFFICE
Ms. Sandra Ward
-
Cabinet Secretary, Cabinet Office (CS)
Mrs. Vicki Samuel-Lettsome - Deputy Cabinet Secretary, Cabinet Office
(DCS)
PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS
Ms. Kim Hollis, QC -
Director, Public Prosecutions, Office of the
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)
Mrs. Tiffany R. Scatliffe-Esprit
- Principal Crown Counsel, Office of the
Director of Public Prosecutions (PCC)
COMPLAINTS MANAGEMENT
Mrs. Sheila Brathwaite - Complaints Commissioner, Complaints
Commission (CC)
Mr. Herbert E. Potter - Acting Assistant Complaints Commissioner
(Ag. Asst. CC)
OFFICE OF THE AUDITOR GENERAL
Ms. Sonia Webster - Auditor General (AudGen)
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR’S / DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe - Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (PSDGO)
Page 11 of 260
Mrs. Helen Seymour - Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt - Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy
Governor‟s Office (FPODGO)
Mrs. Arliene T. Penn - Executive Private Secretary, Governor‟s
Office (ExPrvtSecGO)
Ms. Tamica Hodge - Accounts Officer II ( AcctOII)
Mrs. Michelle Donovan-Stevens - Director of Human Resources (DHR)
Mrs. Jacquelin Henry - Accounts Manager, Human Resources
(AMHR)
Ms. Sharleen Dabreo - Director of Disaster Management (DDM)
Mrs. Erica Smith-Penn
- Registrar, High Court (the Registrar)
Mrs. Anessa Moses-Tobin - Senior Court Administrator, High Court
(SCAHC)
Mrs. Stephanie Benn - Registrar General, Civil Registry and Passport
Office (RG)
Ms. Toya Fahie - Office Manager, Civil Registry and Passport
Office (OM)
Mrs. Annette Williams-Sylvester - Court Manager, Magistracy (CM)
Ms. Kisha Donovan - Deputy Court Manager, Magistracy (DCM)
Honourable Baba Aziz - Attorney General (AG)
Mr. Michael B. Matthews - Commissioner of Police (CoP)
Mr. Alcedo Fahie - Interim Acting Director, Financial
Investigation Agency (Interim Ag.DFIA)
Mr. Jeremy Vanterpool
- Chief Operating Officer, Financial
Investigation Agency (COOFIA)
PREMIER’S POLICY PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro - Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
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(Ag.PSPO)
Mr. Jamal Jones - Finance and Planning Officer , Premier‟s
Office (FPOPO)
Ms. Desiree Smith - Chief Information Officer, Department of
Information and Public Relations (CInfO)
Mr. Anantharaman
Balasubramanian
- Acting Director, BVI Shipping Registry
(Ag.DBVISR)
Ms. Barbara Smith - Senior Administrative Officer, BVI Shipping
Registry (SAOBVISR)
Mr. Raymond Phillips - Director, Central Statistics Office (DCSO)
Mr. Gregory Adams - Chief Planner, Town and Country Planning
Department (CP)
Mrs. Karia Christopher
- Director, Trade, Investment Promotion and
Consumer Affairs (DTCA)
Ms. Najan Christopher - Acting Director International Affairs
Secretariat (Ag.DIAS)
Ms. Elise Donovan - Chief Executive Officer, BVI Finance
Ltd.(CEO)
Mrs. Sharon Flax-Brutus - Director, BVI Tourist Board (DBVITB)
Mr. Denniston Frazer - Managing Director, BVI Airport Authority
(MDBVIAA)
Mr. Coy Levons - Director of Operations, BVI Airport
Authority (DOO)
Ms. Sharifa Smith - Director of Finance, BVI Airport Authority
(DOF)
Mr. Japheta Stevens - Deputy CFO, British Virgin Islands Ports
Authority
Mr. Lenius Lendor - Managing Director, British Virgin Islands
Ports Authority (MDBVIPA)
Page 13 of 260
FINANCE POLICY PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Glenroy Forbes
- Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. M. Alva McCall -
Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of
Finance (DFS)
Mrs. Maria Smith-Thomas - Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
Mr. Ronald Emanuel - Budget Coordinator, Ministry of Finance
(BC)
Ms. Tiffany Todman - Budget Analyst, Ministry of Finance (BA)
Mrs. Michelle Phillips - Department Head; Fiscal Unit / Policy
Analyst, Ministry of Finance (Public Debt)
Mrs. Dawn Joseph - Policy Analyst, Ministry of Finance
Ms. Sandra Brewley - Financial Analyst, Ministry of Finance
(Public Debt)
Ms. Tuneisha Johnson - Budget Officer I, Ministry of Finance (BOI)
Ms. Rhonda Glasgow - Budget Officer II, Ministry of Finance (BOII)
Mr. Leslie Lettsome - Acting Comptroller of Customs, Customs
(Ag.COC)
Ms. Marietta Isles - Senior Administrative Officer, Customs
Mr. Shawn Newton - Finance Officer, Customs (FO)
Ms. Tashima Martin - Senior Officer, Customs
Mr. Orris Thomas - Deputy Commissioner, Inland Revenue
Department (DC)
Ms. Dorea Corea - Director, Internal Audit (DDIA)
Mr. Simba Todman - Deputy Director, Internal Audit (DDIA)
Ms. Pascha Stoutt - Post Master General (PMG)
Page 14 of 260
Mrs. Tamara Taylor - Financial Accountant, Treasury Dept.
Mrs. Lucia Donovan Deputy Director, DoIT (DDDoIT)
Mrs. Kisheba Sprauve-Callwood - Senior Admin. Officer, DoIT (SAODoIT)
Ms. La Toya James - Director, International Tax Authority(DITA)
Ms. Christilyn Benjamin - Deputy Director, International Tax Authority
(DDITA)
MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION
Mr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley - Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration
(PSNRLI)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott - Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration
(DSNRLI)
Ms. Louann Hodge - Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration
(Ag.DSNRLI)
Mr. Norval Young
- Cadastral Information Manager, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
Ms. Linette Rabsatt - Acting Human Resources Manager, Ministry
of Natural Resources, Labour and
Immigration (Ag.HRMNRLI)
Mrs. Janice Rhymer
-
Labour Commissioner, Labour Department
(LC)
Mrs. Michelle McLean - Deputy Labour Commissioner, Labour
Department (DLC)
Mr. Kelvin Dawson
-
Registrar of Lands (RL)
Mr. Dwayne Nibbs - Acting Chief Surveyor, Survey Department
(Ag. CSur)
Page 15 of 260
Mr. Michael Potter Acting Deputy Chief Surveyor, Survey
Department (Ag.DCSur)
Ms. Rosemary Callwood - Acting Chief Immigration Officer,
Immigration Department (Ag.CIO)
Mrs. Germain Cline - Senior Administrative Officer, Immigration
Department (SAO)
Mr. Charles France - Accounts Officer, Immigration Department
(AcctO)
Ms. Lynda Varlack - Acting Director, National Parks Trust
(Ag.DNPT)
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH AFFAIRS, FISHERIES AND
AGRICULTURE
Dr. Marcia Potter
-
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and
Agriculture (PSMEC)
Mrs. Connie George - Chief Education Officer, Ministry of
Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries
and Agriculture (Ag.CEO)
Ms. Lorna Stevens -
Assistant Secretary, Department of Education
and Culture (ASEC)
Mrs. C. Jovita Scatliffe - Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries
and Agriculture, (FPOEC)
Ms. Koreen George - Accounts Supervisor, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and
Agriculture (AcctS)
Mrs. Suzanne Greenaway - Chief Librarian, Library Services Department
(CL)
Mr. Orlando Thomas - Senior Accounts Officer, Library Services
Department (SAcctOLS)
Page 16 of 260
Mr. Stephen Payne Executive Director, Recreation Trust
Mrs. Judith Vanterpool - President, H. Lavity Stoutt Community
College (the President)
Ms. Italia Penn - Bursar, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College
(the Bursar)
Ms. Anne Lennard - Acting Director of Culture, Department of
Culture
Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye - Director, Youth Affairs and Sports
Mr. Carnel Clyne - Chairman, British Virgin Islands Festival and
Fairs Committee
Mr. Kelvin Penn - Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
Mr. Lloyd Williams - Manager, BVI Fishing Complex
Mrs. Tessa Smith-Claxton - Senior Administrative Officer, Agriculture
and Fisheries
Mr. Orville Clarke - Acting Deputy Chief Agricultural
Officer(Ag.DCAO)
HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY PLANNING AND
ADMINISTRATION
Mrs. Petrona Davies
- Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (PSHSD)
Mrs. Natalie Smith
- Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (DSHSD)
Ms. Tasha Bertie - Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (DSHSD)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal -
Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Health and Social Development (FPOHSD)
Miss Asha Romney - Accounts Officer II, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (AcctOII)
Dr. Irad Potter - Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and
Page 17 of 260
Social Development (CMO)
Mr. Shurn Baptiste - Finance Officer, Ministry of Health and Social
Development(FOHSD)
Ms. Alisia T. Browne - Assistant Secretary, Ministry Health and
Social Development (ASHSD)
Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett - Chief Social Development Officer, Social
Development Department (CSDO)
Mrs. Stacie Stoutt-James - Acting Deputy Chief Social Development
Officer, Social Development Department
(Ag. DCSDO)
Ms. Carmen Rabsatt - Senior Administrative Officer, Social
Development Department(SAO)
Mr. Greg Massicote - Manager, Department of Waste Management
(MDWM)
Mr. Neville Allen - Acting Assistant Manager, Department of
Waste Management(Ag.AMDWM)
Mr. Adhan Doward - Waste Management Officer, Department of
Waste Management(WMO)
Mr. Ronald Georges - Chief Executive Officer, BVI Health Services
Authority (CEOBVIHSA)
Ms. Antoniette Skelton - Director, Social Security Board (DSSB)
Mrs. Jeanette Scatliffe-Boynes - Deputy Director, Social Security Board
Ms. Michelle Georges - Chief Operations Officer, Social Security
Board
Mr. Ian S. Smith - Chairman, Social Security Board
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION, WORKS AND UTILITIES
Mr. Jeremy Hodge - Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities
(Ag.PSTWU)
Page 18 of 260
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire - Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (Ag.
DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott - Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities
(Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Arriel Donovan - Manager, Facilities Management Unit (FM)
Mr. Zebalon McLean - Chief Fire Officer, Fire and Rescue Services
(CFO)
Mrs. Pearline Scatliffe-Leonard - Director, Water and Sewerage Department
(DWS)
Mr. Bernard Grant - Deputy Director, Water and Sewerage
Department (DDWSD)
Mr. Michael Davis - Engineer, Water and Sewerage Department
Ms. Camille T. Merry - Senior Assistant Human Resources Manager,
Water and Sewerage Department
(SAHRMWS)
Mr. Luton Leonard - Accounts Supervisor, Water and Sewerage
Department (AcctSup)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert - Information Officer, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities
Mr. Clifford George - Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities
Mrs. Bethsaida Smith-Hanley
- Acting Commissioner of Motor Vehicles,
Department of Motor Vehicles (Ag.CMV)
Mrs. Joann Stoutt - Acting Deputy Commissioner of Motor
Vehicles, Department of Motor Vehicles
(Ag.DCMV)
Page 19 of 260
Mr. Navarro Donovan - Acting Director, Public Works Department
(Ag.DPWD)
Mr. Kurt Hodge - Deputy Director, Public Works Department
(DDPWD)
Mr. Elsworth Phillip - Deputy Director, Public Works Department
(DDPWD)
Ms. Judith Harrigan
- Accounts Supervisor II, Public Works
Department (AcctSuP)
Mr. Reynell Turnbull - Manager, Telephone Services Management
Unit (MTSMU)
Ms. Symorne Penn - Deputy Managing Director, British Virgin
Islands Electricity Department
Mr. Damien Percival - Director, Taxi and Livery Commission
Page 20 of 260
KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS FOR 2019 SFC
AMDHR
AcctOII
ACOC
AG
AgAcctOII
AgAcctGen
AudGen
AgAsstSec
AgDIA
AgCEO
AgCSur
AgDCEO
Accounts Manager, Department of Human Resources
Accounts Officer II
Assistant Commissioner of Customs
Attorney General
Acting Accounts Officer II
Acting Accountant General
Auditor General
Acting Assistant Secretary
Acting Director of Internal Audit
Acting Chief Education Officer
Acting Chief Surveyor
Acting Deputy Chief Education Officer
AgDVISR Acting Director Virgin Islands Shipping Registry
Ag.DNPT Acting Deputy National Park Trust
AgCIO Acting Chief Immigration Officer
AgDSDGO Acting Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
AgPSPO Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
AONRLi
BC
Administrative Officer, Ministry of Natural Resources, Labour and
Immigration
Budget Coordinator
BVIAA B.V.I. Airports Authority
BVIHSA B.V.I. Health Services Authority
BVIEC B.V.I. Electricity Corporation
BVIFSC
CAB
B.V.I. Financial Services Commission
Central Administration Building
CAO
CC
Chief Agricultural Officer
Complaints Commissioner
CEHO Chief Environmental Health Officer
CFO Chief Fire Officer
CFD Conservation and Fisheries Department
CInfO Chief Information Officer
CL
CLRC
Chief Librarian
Chairman, Law Reform Commission
Clerk
CM
CMV
CMS
COP
CP
Clerk, House of Assembly
Court Manager, Magistracy
Commissioner, Department of Motor Vehicles
Chief of Medical Staff and Director for Medical Service
Commissioner of Police, Royal Virgin Islands Police Force
Chief Planner
CRL
CS
Chief Registrar of Lands
Cabinet Secretary
CTO Caribbean Tourism Organisation
Page 21 of 260
CA
COC
CGA
DC
Court Administrator, Magistrate‟s Court
Comptroller of Customs
Coordinator of Gender Affairs
Director of Communications, Premier‟s Office
DOC Director Of Culture
DIA Director, Internal Audit
DCAO Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer
DCP
DCS
DCInfO
DCIR
DCSur
DCRL
DCOP
DDDM
DDIT
DDIA
Deputy Chief Planner
Deputy Cabinet Secretary
Deputy Chief Information Officer
Deputy Commissioner, Inland Revenue
Deputy Chief Surveyor
Deputy Chief Registrar of Lands
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Royal Virgin Islands Police Force
Deputy Director of Disaster Management
Deputy Director of Information Technology
Deputy Director, Internal Audit
DDITA Deputy Director, International Tax Authority
DDNPT Deputy Director, National Parks Trust
DDoIT
DCSO
DDWS
DeHR
Director of Information Technology
Director, Central Statistics Office
Deputy Director of Water and Sewerage
Department of Human Resources
DDM Director of Disaster Management
DIT
DITA
DDITA
Director of Information and Technology
Director, International Tax Authority
Deputy Director, International Tax Authority
DHR Director of Human Resources
DFM Director of Financial Management
DFS Deputy Financial Secretary
DFSIU Director, Financial Services Implementation Unit
DG
DGO
Deputy Governor
Deputy Governor's Office
DLC Deputy Labour Commissioner
DOA
DOE
DON
DoP
Department of Agriculture
Department of Education
Director of Nursing, B.V.I. Health Services Authority
Director of Projects
DoIT
DP
Department of Information Technology
Deputy Postmaster
DPH
DPP
DPrin
DPU
DR
Director of Primary Healthcare
Director of Public Prosecutions
Deputy Principal, Elmore Stoutt High School
Development Planning Unit
Deputy Registrar
Page 22 of 260
DSTWU Deputy Secretary, Transportation, Works and Utilities
DSPO Deputy Secretary, Premier‟s Office
DSNRLi Deputy Secretary, Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
DSDGO Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
DSHSD Deputy Secretary, Health and Social Development
DTB
DTCA
DTS
DTSM
DWS
Director of the Tourist Board
Director of Trade and Consumer Affairs
Director of Telecommunications Services
Deputy Telephone Services Manager
Director of Water and Sewerage
DPW Director of Public Works
EDBVIF Executive Director, B.V.I. Finance
ExPrvSec Executive Private Secretary, Governor‟s Office
FC
FIA
Financial Comptroller, BVI Tourist Board
Financial Investigation Agency
FM
FOHSD
Facilities Manager
Finance Officer, Ministry of Health and Social Development
FPOTWU Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works,
and Utilities
FPODGO Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s Office
FPOEC Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
FPOHSD Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and Social
Development
FPOMOF Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Finance
FPOPO
FPOCED
Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
Finance and Planning Officer, Constitutionally Established
Departments
FS Financial Secretary
GIS Government Information Service
GO
HHRC
Governor‟s Office
Head, Human Rights Commission
HLSCC H. Lavity Stoutt Community College
HMP Her Majesty‟s Prison
ID Interim Director, B.V.I. Finance Ltd.
IAD
IAIII
JLSC
Internal Audit Department
Internal Auditor III, Internal Auditor Department
Judicial and Legal Services Commission
LC
LD
Labour Commissioner
Labour Department
LDCA Land Development Control Authority
MADH Manager, Adina Donovan Home
MBVIFC Manager, B.V.I. Fishing Complex
MWMD Manager, Waste Management Department
MTSMU Manager, Telephone Services Management Unit
Page 23 of 260
MTWU
MDBVIAA
MECYAFA
MH&SD
MNR&LI
MOF
MSHTC
Ministry of Transportation, Works and Utilities
Managing Director, BVI Airports Authority
Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and
Agriculture
Ministry of Health and Social Development
Ministry of Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
Ministry of Finance
Manager, Safe Haven Transitional Centre
MSWD Manager, Solid Waste Department
MTSMU Manager, Telephone Services Management Unit
MWCDA Manager, Wickham‟s Cay Development Authority
NPT National Parks Trust
OECS Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States
PG
PO
PSDGO
Postmaster General
Premier‟s Office
Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
PSMEC Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth
Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
PSTWU Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Works and
Utilities
PSHSD Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social Development
PSNRLI
PCC
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources, Labour and
Immigration
Principal Crown Council
PSC Public Service Commission
PWD Public Works Department
RC
RG
RI
RL
Recreation Trust
Registrar General, Civil Registry and Passport Office
Registrar of Interests
Registrar of Lands
RVIPF Royal Virgin Islands Police Force
SAcctONRL
SAOLRC
SCA
Senior Accounts Officer, Ministry of Natural Resources and
Labour
Senior Administrative Officer, Law Reform Commission
Senior Court Administrator
SecG
SG
Secretary General
Solicitor General
SFC Standing Finance Committee
SM Senior Magistrate
TB Tourist Board
TCPD Town and Country Planning Department
TSC Teaching Service Commission
the Centre Sir Rupert Briercliffe Cultural Centre
the Force Royal Virgin Islands Police Force
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the Registrar Registrar, Supreme Court and Commercial Court
the
Superintendent
Superintendent, Her Majesty‟s Prison
the
Commissioner
Commissioner of Inland Revenue
TSMU Telephone Services Management Unit
UNESCO United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation
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INTRODUCTION
1. The Chairman welcomed the Members of the Standing Finance Committee, the
Financial Secretary and staff of the Ministry of Finance to review the 2019
Budget Estimate of Revenue and Expenditure. The Chairman thanked all the
Members for attending and reminded them of the swift time frame that Standing
Finance must be concluded.
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REVENUE
Present:
Ms. Alva McCall Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance
(DFS)
Mrs. Dawn Alexander-Joseph Policy Analyst – Macro Fiscal Unit, Ministry of
Finance (PA)
Mrs. Michelle Richmond-Phillips Policy Analyst – Macro Fiscal Unit, Ministry of
Finance (PA)
Mr. Ronald Emmanuel Budget Coordinator, Ministry of Finance (BC)
Ms. Tiffany Todman Budget Analyst, Ministry of Finance (BA)
Ms. Tuneisha Johnson Budget Officer I, Ministry of Finance (BOI)
2. The Chairman welcomed the Honourable Members to the Standing Finance
Committee Meetings for 2019 in accordance with Standing Orders 67 (1,2,3 and
4). Prayer was said by the Minister for Health and Social Development and
Territorial Member, Mr. Carvin Malone.
3. The Chairman gave instructions regarding how the meetings were to proceed.
He then welcomed the panel and asked that they state their names and positions
for record.
4. The Deputy Financial Secretary (DFS) and Policy Analyst, Mrs. Alexander-
Joseph, shared a brief power point presentation, for the benefit of the new
members, on the economy and revenue and how the process worked. With
regards to the Economic Review, the DFS stated that there was a 2.3%
economic growth in 2018 which was mainly driven by positive performance in
financial services, the construction industries due in part to the ongoing
rebuilding following the natural disaster events of 2017, as well as the
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rebounding of the tourism industry. She advised that $311Million was budgeted
for revenue collection in 2018 and the unaudited figures showed that $372
Million was collected. She stated that the variance of $61 Million was, as
mentioned earlier, from the out performance of the financial services industry,
the increase in the construction industry and other areas of revenue. The DFS
further stated that by October, 2018 they had cleared over $2 Million in revenue
collection for the first time, and surpassed previous collections for the past five
years. She stated that from 2011 – 2015 more revenue was actually collected
than the amount that was budgeted for in those years. A slight decrease
occurred in 2016 and continued to decline through 2017, but rebounded in 2108,
and outperformed the budgeted figures. The DFS anticipated that there would
be at least a 2.2% growth in 2019, which would again be primarily driven by the
growth in the construction industry, increase investments in public services and
infrastructure, and continued recovery in the tourism sector. With regards to
financial services, the DFS said they remain cautious as a result of international
pressures being placed on the industry at the moment.
5. The DFS continued the presentation and explained how the revenue forecasts
prepared by the Macro fiscal unit were linked to the budget presented by the
Premier. She explained that the first step was to generate the revenue forecasts
which was the dominant element in defining the budget envelop which would
essentially predict the amount that would be collected in revenue to determine
the expenditure for the year. She noted that the forecast numbers were always
higher than the budget numbers to leave room for the spending plan.
6. The Member for the Third District inquired as to whether the revenue growth in
2018 resulted from expanded business or fee increases to which the DFS replied
that it was a combination of both. She stated that in 2017 the FSC announced
that fees would be increased in 2018, and that was implemented on 1st January,
2018. Additionally, there was an increase in new incorporations over 2017
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which also contributed to the growth. The DFS would provide the figures for
2016 with regards to the decline in new incorporations that occurred that year.
7. The Policy Analyst from the Macrofiscal Unit continued the presentation and
further explained that the revenue forecast sat the whole framework to lead into
the budget process. She advised that after the projections were completed the
revenue numbers set the envelope or the base for the expenditure ceiling. She
further expounded on the goals for developing the budget ceiling which were to
strengthen fiscal discipline and expenditure efficiency, to improve strategic
allocation of public resources and to establish a baseline for future
improvements.
8. The Policy Analyst advised that projections/forecasts for the medium term were
done based on certain assumptions where they looked at the bigger picture to
determine the possibilities of what could happen based on the trends of the
economic peelers and historical patterns which sets the cap from which the
budget numbers were derived. The Unit has projected revenue collection of
$375.4Million for 2019 of which $345.1Million will be collected in taxes,
$12.3Millions in grants, and $18Million from other revenue.
9. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired as to
whether the figures took into consideration any negative impacts on the financial
services sector.
10. The Policy Analyst confirmed that the figures included some impacts in the
medium term figures which gave some indications of possible shocks that may
occur in the financial industry and impact the overall figures for 2020 and
beyond.
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11. The Member for the Third District stated that he did not understand the rational
as to why the budgeted figure of $342.4 Million for taxes was less than the
forecasted figure of $345Million, and inquired as to how they decided on which
numbers to use at the budget level.
12. The Policy Analyst stated that historically there were sound methodologies that
show a variance between the forecasted figures and the budget figures which
were always lower. She further advised that the collecting departments were
also involved in the process to generate the figures. At the higher level, she
said, taking into context the bigger picture, the macro assumptions that sets the
frame for the forecast, therefore there was a difference in the numbers for the
budget (what is likely to happen) and the forecast (what can happen) based on
certain assumptions. She further explained that if the budget figures were too
close to the forecasted figures and the assumptions of the international market
changed it could create difficulties and challenges.
13. She added that linking it to the Medium Term Fiscal Frame (MTFF) began with
the projections and the master frame that informed the Medium Term Fiscal
Plan (MTFP). The MTFP is a strategic tool that links macroeconomic
performance for example inflation and GDP to fiscal policy at the aggregate
level. She further stated that in addition to what was presented they were
mindful of the financial risks that could affect some of the revenue streams in
particular the financial services which contribute about sixty percent of
government revenue. Any shocks to the financial services, the resulting fiscal
strategy would require about $7.2Million to bridge the gap.
14. The Policy Analyst further emphasised that it was important to continue to
monitor revenue as it sets the framework for what would happen. She stated
that they utilised a monitoring and reporting framework that helped track the
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performance of revenues which provided an idea of what the end figures would
be at any point in time.
15. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member asked the panel to explain how
spending would be controlled to which the DFS advised that expenditure control
was really based on Members putting the relevant policies in place to ensure
spending was controlled. She stated the MoF has in the past made suggestions
and advised on those measures, but at the end of the day it was the Honourable
Members that made those decisions.
16. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District stated
that under the Financial Management Act the Financial Secretary has the
authority to stop/control what goes on. He mentioned areas such as procurement
of services which had created more slippage, too much positions created under
personal emoluments and recurrent expenses needed to be controlled.
17. The Member for the Second District inquired as to what was being done by the
MoF to collect uncollected revenue. He noted that back in 2015 the uncollected
revenue amounted to about $50Million. He said that although projections were
made for new income streams and new revenue earnings measures, the
outstanding revenue continued to linger and grow. He mentioned that the
Premier spoke about having a business type operation of how the public purse
was handled and requested a report to show the total amount of uncollected
revenue at the end of the years 2016, 2017 and 2018.
18. The Member for the Third District would also like the report to include
outstanding debt to people for legal claims, and loans.
19. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District also requested
a breakdown of revenue collected at the end of 2018 and the balances in all
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accounts at the end of March 2019 and the expenditure between November 1,
2018 – March 31, 2019.
20. The Policy Analyst advised that no additional taxes were included in the budget
and the focus was to improve efficiencies with the collection from revenue
generating departments. The DFS added that each revenue generating
department should submit reports to the Treasury Department on a regular basis,
but some were delinquent in their reporting therefore the MoF‟s focus was to try
to improve on that reporting which would provide them with a better
understanding of what was outstanding. The DFS stated that she had taken note
of the requests, but it may take some time to generate it given she had to discuss
it with the FS and they still had a number of officers working under extreme
conditions.
21. The DFS noted that some offices were accommodated back in the Complex but
the renovations of the building were not an initiative of the MoF. She stated that
a tender for the Complex was issued but a different direction had been taken.
22. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District recognised that in
the course of ten years expenditure rose but for revenue to perform
phenomenally Members would have to band together and not play politics, but
appropriate funds in places in the private sector to provide jobs; E-Government
will save lots of money, rents and other areas will save money so some tough
decisions would have to be made.
23. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the MoF for their hard work and dedication with preparation of the budget. He
stated that they did a little with the transitional budget but the additions and
adjustments do not affect the MTFF so they want to manage expenditures.
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24. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District also thanked
the MOF for their work following Irma and the plans brought forward.
25. There were no further questions and the Chairman thanked the panel for their
presentation and dismissed them from the meeting.
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CONSTITUTIONALLY ESTABLISHED DEPARTMENTS
HEAD 1101 HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Present:
Mrs. Phyllis Evans Clerk, House of Assembly (the Clerk)
Ms. Sharona Pickering Finance Office, House of Assembly (FO)
26. The Chairman welcomed the panel and asked that they state their names and
positions for the record.
27. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District noted
that there was a change in the District allocations from being spent quarterly to
monthly, and inquired whether it would be reverted to quarterly intervals as
Members needed to be informed.
28. The Clerk advised that MoF had instructed to spend on a month-to-month basis
until the budget passed, but the allocations will revert to quarterly.
29. The Budget Coordinator confirmed that the spending plan was on a monthly
basis but HoA had the option to make any changes through the spending plan.
30. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District inquired
whether the $30K allocated for the Leader of the Opposition was budgeted for in
2019. He also expressed that as LOP he would like to receive some
administrative assistance.
31. The Clerk advised that the fund was not automatically placed in the budget, but
the Premier and Member for the First District emphatically expressed that the
funds needed to be in the budget.
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32. The Budget Coordinator advised that a line item could not be made for the $30K
allocation and as such it was subsumed in various subheads under the HoA. He
further advised that a programme could be created for the 2019 budget to
distribute the funds. The DFS further confirmed that the allocation cannot have
a separate line item given the way the budget was presented, and it was allocated
under Subhead 528000 – Services.
33. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
recognised that the fund was placed in different subheads to pay bills.
34. The Member for the Second District noted that he had some difficulty with the
system with the MoF and inquired what could be done to streamline the process.
35. The DFS noted that monies under mitigation fell under Capital, and requests
were made by Members that would benefit private citizens and not Government
Capital assets, and as such the requests could not be granted.
36. The Member for the Second District also noted that the staffing of the HoA
needed to increase to allow for assistance to Members so that they would not lag
behind in performing their duties.
37. The Chairman informed that he had spoken to the Clerk about the needs for
Members but the key issues were funding and transportation.
38. The Member for the Second District inquired as to the readiness of the offices
for the Members to occupy.
39. The Chairman requested that the Members provide a list to the Clerk regarding
what they needed and they would strive to have the offices ready in the next two
weeks.
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40. There were no further questions and the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 1202 CABINET OFFICE
Present:
Ms. Sandra Ward Cabinet Secretary, Cabinet Office (CS)
Mrs. Vicki Samuel-Lettsome Deputy Cabinet Secretary , Cabinet Office(DCS)
41. The Chairman welcomed the panel and asked that they state their names and
positions for record.
42. The panel made a short presentation to the Members on behalf of the Cabinet
Office. The Cabinet Secretary (CS) advised that the Gazette Unit grossed
$462,650 in revenue in 2018 which was generated from Commercial notices,
Gazette subscriptions and Gazette sales. She noted that the aforementioned
figure represented a 16% decrease from 2017, and was the lowest gross revenue
collected since 2015 when the revenue amounted to $413,815. The CS informed
that the Unit averaged an income of revenue of $38,544 per month in 2018, and
has collected $113,489 up to the end of March, 2019.
43. The CS requested an additional $58,595 in supplementary funding. She stated
that the reason for the request was to comply with the Premier who made it clear
upon taking office that his Government was one of inclusion and the funds will
aid in covering the costs of Cabinet meetings which will be held on the various
Sister Islands. In addition, the CS informed that they had commenced digital
meetings at the Cabinet and included the costs for a new module for the National
Security Council and training for about fifty-four Cabinet authorised Members.
44. In continuing the presentation, the DCS highlighted two other initiatives that the
Cabinet Office would undertake, one of which was the Cabinet Records
Preservation Project. She advised that the initiative dealt with the storage of
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records at the R&R Malone Complex, some of the records were affected as a
result of soot from a fire at the Complex and needed to be cleaned. The
Archives Unit would assist with the project, and would cost $5,664.98. The
DCS informed that the second initiative was to bind the annual volumes of the
Gazettes which involved binding all the issues of the Gazette in a particular year
together. She noted that the Office was about four years behind in binding the
Gazette and it would costs about $12,770.70 to bind the issues for 2015 and
2016.
45. The CS noted that the Cabinet Office was displaced following the 2017
hurricanes, and their main challenge was accommodation and as a result they
were still temporarily located on two floors of the Sebastian Building. In a
report from the Environmental Health Unit, she stated they had to purchase
humidifiers given the air quality in the building was quite challenging. She
advised that the staffing was impacted given some officers could not return to
work in the building. As a result, she informed that some readjustments had to
be made in the allotment given under the provisional warrant totaling
$14,464.28. The CS stated that if they could find a suitable and permanent
location to house everyone together it would be more effective in their output.
46. The Leader of the Opposition and Member of the Eighth District noted that there
had been discussions regarding the possibility of utilising the same module used
to host Cabinet meetings and inquired as to whether a similar module had been
explored to use it for House of Assembly meetings.
47. The CS confirmed that discussions were held but the use of the module for
House of Assembly Meetings was not budgeted for, and would be handled
separately. She further advised that it was a component that could easily be
implemented.
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48. The Member for the Second District stated that he had an ongoing concern
regarding his Chairmanship of the VI Cadet Corp which needed to be addressed
as soon as possible, and inquired whether funding and accommodation was set
aside for the programme. He noted that it was their tenth year as an enacted
body of the Territory that had developed disciplined, empowered, young people
to contribute to society and they should be supported.
49. The CS confirmed that funding of $50,000 was allocated for the VI Cadet Corp
Council and payments were disbursed on a quarterly basis. In terms of
accommodation, the CS stated that she was not aware of any accommodation for
the Council, but such a matter would be addressed by the Council when they
convene their meetings. She further advised that there were three bodies
funded through the Cabinet Office, namely the Cabinet Council, National
Security Council, and the VI Cadet Corp Council which would comprise the
Members of the NSC and the Minister for Education.
50. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District thanked the staff
for the work they have done and would see whether they could get some of their
issues addressed.
51. A number of Members also extended thanks to the CS for the brilliant idea of
digitizing Cabinet, the efficiency of the system as well as the savings it brought
through its implementation.
52. There were no further questions for the CS and the Chairman thanked the panel
for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 1013 OFFICE OF THE DIRECTIR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS
Present:
Ms. Kim Hollis, QC Director of Public Prosecution, Office of the
Director of Public Prospections (DPP)
Ms. Tiffany Scatliffe-Esprit Principal Crown Council, Office of the Director
of Public Prosecutions (PCC)
53. The Chairman welcomed the panel and asked that they state their names and
positions for the record.
54. The DPP made a presentation regarding the work of the ODPP since the 2017
Hurricanes, and the practical effects it had during the last quarter of 2018.
55. She emphasised that the statistics that were listed as key performance indicators
in the 2019 budget needed to be substantially updated given they were collated
and submitted in August 2018, prior to the full time resumption of the Criminal
Courts in earnest. She said that they failed to reflect the correct position and
contribution of the ODPP in particular in reducing the backlog of cases that had
accumulated in the courts post hurricane due to the lack of suitable court
facilities until the provision of the modular Magistrate‟s Court building in July
2018.
56. She presented the updated statistics as follows:
Year 2016 2017 2018
Number of Magistrates
Complaints filed
611 486
presently stated
to be 400)
617 ( revised as
states was 450 , this
was prior to
resumption of courts
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For the first quarter of
2019 157 ( 628 ?? )
Number of Magistrates Court
files disposed/closed
169 203 250
For the first quarter of
2019 – 22
Number of Indictments filed and
cases committed to the High
Court for Trial
21 28 42 ( states 35 )
For the first quarter of
2019 – 15
Number of High Court cases
outstanding
12 41 to 25/7/2018 by
dec 2018 increased to
61
Numbers of High court cases
closed.
18 9 15
57. The DPP stressed that it was important that Members appreciated that the ODPP
was still struggling with a backlog of cases that was occasioned as a result of the
Magistrate‟s Courts not being able to sit following the 2017 hurricanes and
indeed as well as the gap that occurred when they did not have and were unable
to have jury trials because there was no High Court Judge in the Virgin Islands.
58. She further advised that the number of juvenile cases had fallen quite
considerably. The total number of juveniles involved in crimes was 35 in 2016,
32 in 2017 and 9 in 2018. The ODPP was of the view that the decrease in
juvenile crime in 2018, was partly accountable as a result of the number of
young persons that left the Territory following the Hurricanes in 2017.
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59. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District noted that ESHS
had a number of disturbances and he was advised by the Commissioner of
Police that they allowed the schools to deal with the disturbances rather than
logging them so as to not criminalize the young people. He inquired of the DPP
whether or not she endorsed that approach and sought her advice as to whether
they should be logged to provide a true picture of juvenile delinquency.
60. The DPP underscored that they should be logged, but just a record kept of the
offenders to see whether or not they were repeat offenders. She stated that she
also agreed with the approach of the Commissioner of Police which would
prevent the juveniles from having criminal records in relation to their future.
She continued her discourse by stating that at present the ODPP did not have the
ability to caution first offenders but would support having legislation as far as
juvenile offenders were concerned.
61. The Principal Crown Counsel further confirmed that in 2014 the ODPP drafted a
caution policy with the assistance of the Crown Prosecution Services in the UK.
She advised that the draft was forwarded to the DGO to be presented as a
Cabinet Paper and considered to become legislation as a possible addendum or
schedule to the Young People and Children‟s Act 2005. If it was approved by
Cabinet it would then be sent forward to the AG for drafting, but nothing had
been done to move it forward.
62. She reiterated the process which she said was clearly communicated to the
former DPP in her presence, and they were instructed to send recommendations
through the Ministry Head which was the DGO. She requested clarification
through the AG to correct them if that was not the case, given they had a
plethora of legislations, legislative proposals and amendments such as the
outdated Criminal Code, the Drugs Act, and the Firearms Code , to move
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forward. The DPP validated the statement made by Principal Crown Counsel
regarding the process and advised that she had been instructed to follow the
same process.
63. She also advised that she had followed up on the submission for the Young
People and Children‟s Act 2005, as well as, the Witness and Anonymity Act on
a number of occasions. She stated that the ODPP as well as the Commissioner
of Police would like to have the Witness and Anonymity Act passed as a piece
of legislation for the Territory as it would assist them in combating serious
crimes. She further noted that it was even announced in the Governor‟s Speech
from the Throne on the last occasion, but nothing had been done to advance it.
64. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District said that he
would take the matter up with the Premier in Cabinet and with the National
Security Council to which the DPP was grateful.
65. With regards to the 2019 budget for ODPP, the DPP said it was estimated at
$1,884,900. She advised that the ODPP had identified a number of central
organisational priorities in pursuance of their overall objectives for 2019.
66. She emphasised the forthcoming mutual evaluation process that was to take
place, and as a result at the top of their list were Proceeds of Crime, Forfeiture,
Confiscation and Terrorist Financing matters; the improvement of the
prosecutorial service by training; electronic efficiency and security; and
identifying and prioritising potential areas of legislative reform.
67. With regards to Proceeds of Crime, Forfeiture and Confiscation, the DPP stated
that the request for advancement as far as the ODPP was concerned in relation to
that priority was in order to recruit a globally recognised specialist in all aspects
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of the field of asset forfeiture with an in-depth knowledge of terrorist financing
matters in order to ensure that the ODPP was sufficiently equipped in relation to
the mutual evaluation as well as being future proofed, and thus enabling the
department to be evaluated to pass the mutual evaluation.
68. The DPP further advised that since taking up office in 2016, she had worked
consistently, to improve the forensic skills and performance of the Office along
with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force in this area, and indeed they had
been responsible for raising awareness amongst the RVIPF officers on the
ground with a series of mutual lectures.
69. As the constitutional prosecutor of the Virgin islands, the DPP advised that the
Office currently receives case files for advice and court proceedings from a
number of law enforcement agencies including the Commissioner of Police,
Customs, Immigration, as well as Financial Investigation Authority. The ODPP
therefore requires an overarching expert to advise and collate diverse sources of
information from multiple Law Enforcement Agencies for maximum financial
benefits.
70. Her request for advancement was to enable the ODPP to specifically recruit the
experienced senior financial prosecutor prior to the Mutual Evaluation, offering
a package of $148,000 all inclusive of allowances and other benefits. She stated
that this was reinforced by the fact that the Cayman Islands recently failed their
Mutual Evaluation and it was no surprise that they had internationally advertised
for the same type of expert to rectify their position.
71. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District stated that he appreciated the need for the recruitment of such
talent, but inquired whether there were plans to develop the current talent for the
purposes of succession planning.
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72. The DPP said that the reason for recruitment of a specialist person would lead to
cascading training to the present staff within the office as well as to other law
enforcement agencies.
73. With regards to training and improvement of the prosecutorial service, the DPP
noted that the training budget had been severely reduced to $5000 for 2019, and
requested that the budget be augmented to $30,000. She advised that this was a
specific requirement in relation to the ODPP in the National Risk Assessment in
that training should be arranged and received on asset recovery, on a determined
basis to keep the experience of prosecutorial staff current and relevant. She
noted that in 2018, she was able to obtain a scholarship for one of the crown
counsels to attend a highly regarded advanced forensic advocacy training course
at Keble College Oxford in the UK.
74. The Member for the Third District noted that legislation was recently passed
granting the Police the authority to retain a certain amount of the proceeds of
crime and forfeiture, and inquired as to whether it was related to what she spoke
about earlier.
75. The DPP confirmed that it was the same topic she had addressed earlier, but the
ODPP received none of the proceeds. She said that the ODPP was not aware of
the discussions that had taken place regarding the legislation, and although they
worked with the Police in confiscating proceeds of crime and forfeiture they
were left out of the collections. She said that they would like to be included, but
understand that the Police Force was a much larger department and required
more financing.
76. The Member for the Third District stated that he was under the impression that
only the Police was involved, and felt that there should be a similar legislation
authorising that some of the proceeds go to the ODPP.
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77. In a follow-up question, the Member for the Third District asked the DPP to
state what role the office played in regards to the excessive wait for prisoners on
remand.
78. The DPP stated that the ODPP made representations to the court in relation to
how cases should proceed, but either the Magistrate‟s Court or the High Court
Judge made decisions regarding the length of time cases took.
79. The DPP stated that she had been in the Service for two and a half years in
response to a question from the Member for the Third District. She informed
that her contract would expire in August, 2020. She advised that as far as
succession planning she had a Principal Crown Counsel whom she worked
closely with but also reiterated her request for a Senior Financial Prosecutor and
not another Principal Crown Council as listed in the budget which she did not
request. She felt however that at the end of her contract her Principal Crown
Counsel would be her successor.
80. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member asked
whether personal emoluments covered payments to Counsels who were
recruited for special cases to which the DPP responded that those cases were
covered under the Services Subhead.
81. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member further
inquired about the rent, but was advised that rent was paid by the Deputy
Governor‟s Office.
82. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the increase in travel to which the DPP advised
that the increase in travel resulted from expert witness travel such as Ballistics,
Drugs Analysts and other experts that are not available in the Territory. She
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advised that they had started communicating with those experts through video
link, but still needed to budget for it.
83. The Member for the Second District asked the DPP how many cases she had
tried since her tenure, and she responded that she had done at least one every
legal term in the High Court, but at the end of 2018 she had done quite a few in
the Magistrate‟s Court to assist with the backlog of cases because she did not
have enough staff to cope with all the cases.
84. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the panel for the work they have done and noted that it would be a challenging
year given the budget was in a transitional state and asked that they provide a
spreadsheet with their requests.
85. There were no further questions and the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 1404 COMPLAINTS COMMISSION
Present:
Mrs. Sheila Brathwaite Complaints Commissioner, Complaints Commission
(CC)
Mr. Herbert Potter Crown Counsel on rotation at the Complaints
Commissioner Office
86. The Chairman welcomed the panel and asked that they state their names and
positions for the record.
87. The Complaints Commissioner paid tribute to the late Mr. Elton Georges, the
first Commissioner who established the office and sadly passed on 4th April
2018. The Office celebrated its 10th anniversary on 3rd March, 2019, but no
activities were held to celebrate the anniversary.
88. The CC advised that when investigations were conducted recommendations
were made which usually cover funding, legislative amendments, reorganisation
of staff and even policies. The CC will seek amendments to the Complaints
Commissioner Act 2003 legislation which she hoped would be achieved in
2019. She said that presently recommendations were made, and then the Act
required a Special Report to be laid on the table of the HOA if there was no
response. The CC advised that she would rather discuss the recommendations
further and encourage adherence. She said that the new process will be reflected
in their proposed amendments to the Act along with other steps to be taken
before a Special Report had to be made. She said that it was also her goal to
position the Commission to make a contribution to the Transformation Initiative
of the Public Service, under the good governance aspect of the transformation
initiative.
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89. In terms of funding, the CC informed that the total budgeted amount for 2019
was $334,500. She noted that, amongst other things, $4,722.00 was allocated to
replace furniture that was damaged during the hurricanes of 2017. In addition,
she advised that funds were budgeted to attend the biennial Conference and
Board Meeting of the Caribbean Ombudsman Association in 2019, to allow for
an officer to participate in an attachment for at least one week at one of their
counterpart agencies, and for domestic travel to the Sister Islands. A small
provision was also included for Marketing and Advertising, and to have the
security system re-installed.
90. The CC anticipated that they would return to their full complement of staff of
four which would allow for better services to the public. She expressed her
eagerness to retain Mr. Herbert Potter who has been serving on rotation for four
months, and performing the duties of Assistant Complaints Commissioner.
91. For the remainder of the fiscal year, the CC expected to conduct more Own
Motion Investigations, which would be initiated if it was found that a number of
persons in the community would be affected, and to visit the Sister Islands at
least twice for the year.
92. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about the increased costs for rent in which the CC informed that
location of the office remained the same, but the rent had increased from $3,000
to $4,700 per month as a result of refurbishments to the office which had been
badly damaged during the 2017 hurricanes.
93. The Chairman inquired as to whether the CC had any challenges to which she
replied that funding to market the office and to travel overseas for training, as
well as lack of cooperation from some offices were some of the challenges they
faced.
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94. The Minster for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired as to the trend regarding the number of complaints
received since she took over the office.
95. The CC indicated that the number of complaints had been on a downward trend
and had reduced significantly. She anticipated that it would continue to decline
because Public Officers had improved their services. In addition, she noted that
in 2018 individuals were more focused on their own personal recovery rather
than complaining about government services.
96. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the CC for the work of the Complaints Office and reminded the panel that the
budget was in a transitional state.
97. There were no further questions for the CC and the Chairman thanked the panel
for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 1707 OFFICE OF THE AUDITOR GENERAL
Present:
Ms. Sonia Webster Auditor General, Office of the Auditor General
(AudGen)
98. The Chairman welcomed the Auditor General to the Standing Finance
Committee and asked that she state her name for the record.
99. The AudGen informed of the success of the year 2018 based on the number of
financial statements received from the Treasury Department from 2012 – 2016.
She also informed that the Value for Money Audits (VFM) Unit was also
revived in 2018 and were conducting VFM examinations. These audits dealt
with projects and programmes, and required more time to complete.
100. The AudGen indicated that the focus for 2019, would be to continue with the
audit mandate and to continue building the VFM function and to continue
conducting Statutory Board audits, were outstanding. She informed that the
focus would also be on capacity building which would increase the number of
staff. She also informed that there was an increase in the budget training, which
was necessary for auditors, in order to stay current.
101. The AudGen informed the Standing Finance Committee that the focus for 2019
would be to update the reviewing process on the Sister Islands and also update
the processes on contract monitoring. She stated that the Audit Legislation
needed to be updated, as well as updating the website for the public to have
access to what the office puts out, especially contracts. The website would keep
the public more engaged and more knowledgeable about the correct information.
The AudGen also stated that the only new spending for a vehicle which was
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damaged in 2017 and was eventually written off by the Public Works
Department.
102. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the AudGen for her input and queried whether it was a constitutionally breached
to not have the audits up to date. The Auditor General indicated that it was.
103. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District inquired
what was needed to get the 2017 Audits completed. The Auditor General
informed that she was awaiting the financial statements from the Treasury
Department.
104. The AudGen informed that there may be a delay in obtaining the 2017 financial
statements because of the changed legislation in 2012, which required the
adoption of international IFSTAT standards which required new changes and
included all Statutory Boards in central Government.
105. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District queried
about her role in auditing the Recovery Development Agency (RDA).
106. The AudGen informed that she had an overriding function, to ensure that
auditors were appointed and functioning.
107. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
queried about how satisfied she was with previous suggested implemented
standards.
108. The AudGen indicated that from one audit to the next the same steps were being
repeated but if departments were not able to comply with the recommendations,
they would normally inform the department of the recommended changes they
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plan to take based on the resources the department may have, which the AudGen
would acknowledge.
109. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired whether the RDA was a Statutory Body. The AudGen indicated that it
was an established one. She also indicated that her department would still be
engaged and would receive all copies of their contracts.
110. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District informed that the
department was criticised for being under-resourced and being unable to make
proper audits. The AudGen confirmed that they were under-resourced and did
not take it as a criticism, and only took on the audits they could manage.
111. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
manual work which was being done on Jost Van Dyke and whether Anegada
was in the same position. The AudGen indicated that it had more to do with
setting up the system properly and that the Treasury Department played a role in
this and would not be possible until there is an update in the internet connection
and would be question better poised for the Accountant General.
112. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about contract monitoring. The AudGen informed
that there were reconciliation methods to ensure that all contracts were being
received from the Ministries.
113. The Member for the Second District inquired of the purpose of an audit. The
AudGen stated that audits were conducted to ensure that the public is aware of
what is going on with the Government, to ensure that there is value for money
and also to ensure that there are checks and balances.
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114. The AudGen‟s thanked the Members for their support.
115. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the AudGen and her staff for the work they conducted and also the level of
professionalism that was executed during the process.
116. The Financial Secretary sort to clarify the manual process as it relates to Jost
Van Dyke and Anegada. He stated that the Department of Information
Technology (DOIT) was presently working on having the connection reinstated
and inform that it will be addressed at a later date.
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GOVERNOR’S GROUP
HEAD 2108 OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mrs. Arliene T. Penn Executive Private Secretary, Governor‟s Office
(ExPrvSec)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
Ms. Tamica Hodge Accounts Officer II, Governor‟s Office (AcctOII)
117. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
118. The ExPrvSec in her presentation stated the vision was to support continuous
improvement in the BVI through service, partnership and open communications.
The 2019 strategic priorities included the Police, Disaster Management, the
Prison, the Courts and the Public Service. Partnering and supporting various
government departments through recovery and good governance, and also
working through cross training and sharing of portfolios to ensure continuity of
the work of the Governor.
119. The ExPrvSec indicated the need for a truck which was destroyed during the
passage of hurricanes Irma and Maria. A new copier is also needed in addition
to the much needed furniture for the Reception Hall as well as the Governor‟s
Office.
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120. She also informed that hurricane repairs that were done to the Governor‟s
residence was a Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) funded project.
121. The ExPrvSec indicated that the funds requested was to ensure the health and
safety of all those that utilise the Governor‟s Office.
122. The Chairman thanked the Executive Private Secretary for her presentation.
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HEAD 2109 DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
123. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
124. The PSDGO in her presentation updated the committee that the Liquor Licence
Act which had its first reading in the House of Assembly in January 2019, but
was being resubmitted to Cabinet with the change of Government, and also
sought to try to improve the temporary process by conducting joint inspections
with the Police, Departments of Fire, Environmental Health and the Deputy
Governor‟s Office, on the same day to limit the time it took to complete the
process.
125. The PSDGO also indicated that the Elections Amendment Act paved the way for
the 2019 General Elections, and that a survey of the General Elections was
conducted and that a total of three hundred and fifty-eight (358) persons
completed it, of which some of the results were very positive, and would be
advanced through the Supervisor of Elections.
126. The PSDGO informed that with the passage of Disaster Management Act in
2018, which dealt with the removal of marine derelict vessels. The focus on the
new Disaster Management Bill, which was finalized but is being resubmitted to
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the Cabinet for approval, as well as the Police Act and the Public Service
Management Bill.
127. The PSDGO stated that one of their focuses is with housing accommodations for
the Government offices which was at a cost of $6 Million and climbing for
rental properties for offices and informed that the path that we are currently on is
not sustainable. The PSDGO informed that on 1st March, 2019, the Sister
Islands Co-ordinator was appointed. This unit was in place to bridge the gap
with the sister islands. She also made an appeal for the Archives and Records
Management 2010, Act which was still waiting to come into force, in order that
the archives and records officer can function properly.
128. The PSDGO informed that while they awaited a decision on a by-election, there
was no provision in place if a by-election was needed but indicated of a
preliminary budget that is in place, and hoped before the budget process was
over, that some moneys would be made available.
129. The PSDGO informed that the Territory was hosting the Caribbean Centre for
Development Administration (CARICAD) Board meeting, and that the
submission was added after the budget was submitted for $20,000.00.
130. The PSDGO Virgin Gorda Administration Building was severely damaged after
the 2017 hurricanes, and that received Cabinet‟s approval for funding late in
2018, and that the staff needed to be removed from the building.
131. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District thanked the PSDGO for her presentation and inquired about
the Queen‟s Birthday celebrations. The PSDGO indicated that the provisions
were there, but would not be listed as the Queen‟s Birthday Celebration.
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132. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the renaming of the Jost Van Dyke
administration building.
133. The PSDGO stated that the renaming programme was very much in place, and
that the committee needed to be revived.
134. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District inquired about
the training session DDM had with the Ministers and whether there were any
other training in place for Members of the House of Assembly with the
impending hurricane season and based on what was experienced in 2017 with
Hurricanes Irma and Maria.
135. The PSDGO suggested that the Director of Disaster Management would be in a
better position to answer his query.
136. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District inquired about
the amount which is in place for the preliminary budget should a By-election
take place. The PSDGO informed that there was a preliminary budget of
$35,000.00.
137. The Member for the Second District inquired about the administration building
on Jost Van Dyke and inquired whether there was any intention for remedial
works to be done to the first floor.
138. The PSDGO stated that the RDA had oversight of the project, which was being
funded by the United Kingdom Government and did not have the details of the
first floor.
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139. The Member for the Second District suggested that the District Officer be
housed on the second floor as well as have urgent works done to the first floor.
140. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
liquor licence, and whether provisions were in place at the Magistrate Court to
accommodate the members of the Sister Islands, whether they can be facilitated,
and suggested that the Magistrates Court could set up hearings in Anegada and
Virgin Gorda.
141. The PSDGO noted the recommendations, but informed that after the passage of
the act, the courts will no longer approve the licences, but they will be done by a
liquor licencing board and will be valid for one year instead of six months.
142. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired how soon
after the act is passed the board will be appointed.
143. The PSDGO stated that the process would be in place for the December Sitting.
144. The PSDGO thanked the committee for the opportunity to present on the behalf
of the Deputy Governor‟s Office.
145. The Premier thanked them for their efforts and to keep in mind that this was a
transitional budget.
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HEAD 2110 HUMAN RESOURCES
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mrs. Michelle Donovan-Stevens Director, Human Resources (DHR)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Jaqueline Henry Accounts Manager, Human Resources (AMHR)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
146. The Chairman welcomed the Director of Human Resources and asked that she
state her name for the record.
147. The DHR in her presentation to the committee outlined the major achievements
the department made during 2018, which included improving the human
resources policies and legislation; ensure alignment with the organisational
needs and to support a modern public service. The continuation of the
Retirement Age Act, which ceased the dual compensation of persons who were
re-engaged after retirement, and the introduction of a flexible working
arrangement policy and develop draft legislation for staff who requested the
right for a variation of their working arrangements.
148. The DHR stated that a re-deployment plan was implemented after the 2017
hurricanes as a systematic approach for shifting talent where it was most needed.
About 80% of all Government employee records have been scanned and are
available electronically. Consultation on the Public Service Management Bill
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were advanced which covers how the public service manages itself and included
the introduction of a whistle blowing provision.
149. The Health and Safety Wellness policy was approved by Cabinet and phased in
the implementation of a series of wellness programmes and through Project
Uplift, which was supported by the mental and emotional wellness of public
officers. A total of 200 employees participated in the programme in 2018 and
also filled the vacant counsellor position which was very crucial. The Years of
Service Recognition service was conducted where one hundred and forty-five
public officers were recognized and a total of seventy-one retirees were
honoured. The DHR indicated that a major issue was to support the
transformation project.
150. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District inquired
whether the Training Division was functioning. The PSDGO informed that it
was not.
151. The DHR informed that the programme had been changed to learning and
development.
152. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the public officers who commuted on a daily
basis from the Sister Islands to Tortola and inquired whether the programme was
still in place and also whether there was an increase in the commuter allowance.
The DHR informed that there was no increase in the commuter allowance but
the programme was still in place. The Minister noted that an increase should be
considered with the rising cost of the boat fare.
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153. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member also inquired about the
customer service and queried whether there was any collaboration with the BVI
Tourist Board and the Disney programme for customer service.
154. The PSDGO stated that the simple answer was yes, and that they have also
customised the programme, but using the services of a local agent. The Junior
Minister for Tourism inquired about a time line for it to be implemented. The
PSDGO informed that it would be implemented by the third quarter of this year.
155. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member also
inquired about the heavier customer service contact areas and whether the
Departments of Immigration, Customs were considered two of those involved.
The PSDGO informed that the departments of Labour and Immigration were
involved in the pilot programme but was unable to confirm whether Customs
was involved in phase one.
156. The Minister for Health suggested that specific attention be made with those
frontline officers as the Territory boasts to be a tourist destination.
157. The DHR informed the SFC that a salary review had not been conducted since
2006 and that salary reviews will now be conducted every three to five years at
maximum, which is the service standard. She also requested an additional
$4,000 for basic training and informed that the area that dealt with years of
service recognition needed additional funding.
158. The Chairman thanked the Director of Human Resources for her presentation to
the SFC.
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HEAD 2112 DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Ms. Sharleen DaBreo Director, Disaster Management (DDM)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
159. The Chairman welcomed the Director of Disaster Management to the Standing
Finance Committee and asked that she state her name for the record.
160. In the presentation given by the DDM she mentioned that their budget was
divided into two programme areas, the general budget, totalling $870,000.00
which was spent in 2018 which represented about 92% of the budget provided,
and for the work programme budget the expenditure was about $42,589.00
which amounted to 98% of her budget. 57% of the budget is allocated to staff
compensation in the form of personal emoluments and contributions, and about
40% of the budget is used for programmes. She also informed that in 2017, a
grant was received from the Caribbean Development Bank which amounted to
$650,000.00, which is being used to implement flood mitigation measures in Sea
Cows Bay, East End/Long Look and Jost Van Dyke. The DDM indicated that
the project is expected to conclude at the end of July and also informed of the
department was still required to cover a number of activities which included the
improvement of the drainage in and around the Nibbs Ghut in Sea Cow‟s Bay,
repairs to the Valarie O. Thomas Community Centre and the Ebenezer Thomas
Primary School and the mangrove restoration project in Jost Van Dyke, which
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required extensive PR campaign, emergency signage as well as salaries for two
staff members of the project.
161. The DDM informed that the focus of 2018 was on capacity building and the re-
establishment of the multi hazard alert and early warning system and that the
focus for 2019 improving community emergency response capacity, the 2019
readiness plan, the completion of the CDB Smart Community Project,
improvements on the National hazard GIS Layers, and support the Ministries
with the necessary disaster risks reduction within their structures and also
prepare for re-accreditation in February 2020.
162. The DDM further stated that the current budget allows to have the Training
Officer upgraded to Training Manager, the appointment of a Sister Islands
Disaster Liaison Officer, with responsibilities of the technical aspects of the
community based disaster risks reduction, with focus on all of the Sister Islands
and would be responsible for all the hazardous assessment activities to properly
define the risks to the Sister Islands to build capacity and to ensure that
volunteers have the necessary public awareness and initiatives that are tailored
for them. She also stated that support in 2018 came in the form of donated
generators and contingency stock from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office,
and also with the help of the Red Cross, they were able to construct seven
platforms to house seven containers, which would be used as satellite
warehouses. The DDM also informed that the containers were secured with the
assistance of the Governor‟s Office, Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society, and
VG ROC, but additional funding was necessary for the transportation of the
containers to the sites and also to house the twenty-two generators installed
which would be placed at fire stations and then converted to satellite EOC‟s.
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163. The Member for Second District expressed his support for the DDM and
recommended that the sitting government gives the department the requested
funds.
164. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District acknowledged
the department, and the DDM in the preparations for the hurricane season, and
suggested that a series of meetings were held with Members of the House of
Assembly and that everyone was aware of what is expected of them during a
disaster.
165. The Member for the Third District inquired about the need for $60,000.00 for
the transporting of the containers that will be used for satellite offices.
166. The DDM informed that the cost would include the cost of transportation of the
containers, installation of the generators, to outfit the containers and also for
existing generators at the various community centres.
167. The Member for Third District inquired whether a container was appropriate
facility to be used. The DDM informed that the department was doing as much
to get the satellite offices in place, and to eventually have permanent satellite
offices in many of the isolated communities.
168. The Member for the Third District commended the Director of DDM for the
works done during the 2017 hurricanes.
169. The Chairman inquired of who was in charge during a national disaster.
170. The DDM informed that during a national disaster, the Governor was in charge,
but in council, and by consultation with the Premier.
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171. The DDM recommended that 3% of a country‟s budget goes into disaster
management.
172. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports commended the DDM for the works her department
had done and also for her efforts.
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HEAD 2113 SUPREME COURT
HEAD 2116 COMMERCIAL COURT
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mrs. Erica Smith-Penn Registrar, Supreme Court (the Registrar)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Anessa Tobin Senior Court Administrator, Supreme Court
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
173. The Chairman welcomed the Registrar of the Supreme Court.
174. The Registrar in her presentation stated the vision and mission of the courts, and
also the core roles of the courts, are for registration, to hear cases, and to
administer justice in a fair manner.
175. The Deputy Speaker thanked the Registrar for her presentation given.
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HEAD 2114 CIVIL REGISTRY AND PASSPORT OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
((PSDGO)
Mrs. Stephanie Benn Registrar General, Civil Registry and Passport
Office (RG)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
Miss Toya Fahie Office Manager, Civil Registry and Passport
Office
176. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
177. The RG gave a brief presentation to the Committee and highlighted the
following:
The Civil Registry and Passport Office relocated to the new space (Sakal
Place), however, the office requires additional space due to the passage of the
hurricanes and the Courts now utilising the space assigned to their office;
There had been an increase of 141 applications for citizenship and 65% for
Visas thus increasing the workload;
Requested two additional staff at the Senior Executive Officer level.
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178. The Member for the Third District inquired about the status of code for the
passport “VGB” and the belonger seal inside of the passport.
179. The RG responded that the United Kingdom Government was still working on
the issue with the Code. With regards to the seal, the RG responded that the
process had resumed.
180. The PSDGO added that that the Office was trying to work out some technical
difficulties with respect to internet connection so that they can accommodate
prior requests.
181. The Member for the Third District inquired whether the department was in
possession of the machine to print the Belonger cards.
182. The RG responded that once the Budget was passed the office would be able to
purchase the new equipment.
183. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired about the plan for additional space for the Civil Registry and
Passport Office.
184. The PSDGO stated that office accommodation was a challenge for the office.
The plan was for the Civil Registry and Passport office to occupy the first two
floors of the Sakal Place. As a result of the hurricane, the DGO had to reallocate
space and based on the needs of the service, the Registrar‟s Office was relocated
to the second floor of the Sakal Place due to the conditions of the former
location. The PSDGO further added that the Magistrate‟s Court would also
occupy space at the Sakal Place, as the Magistrate‟s Court is located in five
different locations and currently not functioning at its optimum. It is the intent
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of the DGO to have the Civil Registry and Passport Office relocated to the third
and fourth floors of the Sakal Place.
185. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District commended the
RG for the work that the office continued to do with limited resources.
186. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2115 MAGISTRACY
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Annette Williams-Sylvester Court Manager, Magistracy (CM)
Miss Kisha Donovan Deputy Court Manager, Magistracy (DCM)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
187. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
188. The CM gave a comprehensive presentation to the Committee and highlighted
the following:
The Magistracy has a staff complement of 17 employees;
The Office was operating from five (5) locations:
Royal Virgin Islands Police Force;
John‟s Hole Modular Building;
Conservation and Fisheries Conference Room;
Internal Audit Office; and
Vanterpool Administration Building on Virgin Gorda
The Budget reflects the addition of new positions which are required to the
staff the Child Maintenance Unit which is required to implement the Child
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Maintenance and Access Act, 2017 (CMAA) which was brought into force with
retroactive effect to 20th April, 2017.
Requested the creation of a full time Additional Magistrate position to assist
with the backlog of cases in the Magistrate‟s Court.
189. The CM also highlighted some achievements for 2018 work year:
The conference room at Conservation and Fisheries was declared by the
Magistrate‟s Court (Amendment) Order, 2017 as a courtroom. Court
proceedings for the hearing of Civil, Traffic and Quasi matters commenced on
Monday 19th February, 2018.
The Criminal Division of the Court partially resumed on Wednesday 7th
March, 2018 at the House of Assembly where 82 matters were disposed.
In October, 2018 court proceedings commenced on Virgin Gorda where they
only hear civil, traffic and quasi matters.
Lord Ahmad, Minister of Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the United
Kingdom handed over the keys to the new modular court building on 31st
July, 2018.
Three Additional Magistrates and a full time Magistrate were appointed to
assist with the backlog of cases. Three hundred and forty (340) cases were
disposed.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) in partnership with the
Magistracy commenced staff training on the implementation of advance
Technology with the use of the (Electronic Litigation Filing and Service
Procedures) Rules, 2018.
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Coroner’s Court Statistics
52 sudden deaths were reported for 2018
Liquor Licences Statistics
A total of 388 liquor licences renewals were issued in 2018; and
62 new applications filed in 2018 and 10 were dismissed.
190. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about
the number of persons incarcerated due to non-payment of Child Support.
191. The CM responded that she did not have an accurate figure but noted that most
of the persons that were incarcerated were released. The CM stated that she
would submit the information to the Committee.
192. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District thanked the panel
for their presentation.
193. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2117 ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Honourable Baba Aziz Attorney General, Attorney General‟s Chambers
(AG)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s
Office (FPODGO)
194. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
195. The AG gave a handout for the Members of the Committee to review. He noted
that:
The AG Chambers has 10 lawyers to provide assistance to Government;
The office needs more support in order to perform at its optimum level.
2018 Accomplishments
22 Acts were passed;
67 Statutory Instruments were enacted;
18 Resolutions of the House were passed
Imperial Legislations – 1
Appointments - 16
Instruments of Appointments – 18
Tendered 1164 advice to Departments
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Civil Litigations
306 matters before the Court
196. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports inquired about the Law Reform functions since the
Commission has been shut down.
197. The AG responded that the administrative personnel from the Commission were
relocated to the AG‟s Office and that the Office had not taken on any Law
Reform. He further reported that the building that housed the Law Reform
Commission is now occupied by the Deputy Governor‟s Office following the
storms. He added that the AG‟s role also included Law Revision and the Laws
of the BVI were revised up to 2013.
198. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about the backlog of cases and asked what was required for the office
to deal with the matters expeditiously.
199. The AG responded that they had requested additional senior staff, which was
reflected in the Budget. The PSDGO noted that some of the vacancies were in
process of being filled as the positions were advertised and the deadline had
passed for applications to be submitted.
200. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District thanked the AG
for the work that the department continues to do.
201. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2118 POLICE
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mr. Michael Matthews Commissioner of Police, Royal Virgin Islands Police
Force (CoP)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office (DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(FPODGO)
202. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
203. Prior to making his presentation, the CoP thanked the Financial Secretary and
Ministry of Finance for their support to the RVIPF over the last 18 months.
204. The CoP gave a comprehensive report to the Standing Finance Committee and
highlighted the following:
Operating Budget for 2019 -$17,522,993
Proposed draft Capital Acquisition - $3,300,000
RVIPF Performance for 2018
9% reduction in overall crime compared to 2017;
8% reduction recorded in 2016;
110 less victims of crime;
Total crime 1,103;
6 homicides involving illegal firearms;
2 fatal road accidents (1 involving scooter, the other a works truck);
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34 firearm related offences; compared to 48 in 2017, and 70 in 2016;
6 homicides (4 persons have been charged with 2 homicides);
currently has a detection rate of 52% for homicides;
Seized 10 illegal firearms; compared to 18 in 2017;
29% decrease in firearms.
RVIPF Training and Recruitment 2018
The enhanced draft budget is $183,633;
Recruited 17 Regular Officers and 3 Auxiliary Officers;
40% of new recruits were BVIslanders or persons living locally
205. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities inquired about the
effectiveness of community policing and asked how many communities are
being patrolled in.
206. The CoP responded that there is no community police unit at the moment. It
was collapsed in the aftermath of the hurricane to focus on other greater needs.
The aim is to have four (4) community officers per district so there will be 34
officers over the nine (9) districts.
207. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports inquired about the resources to restore the CCTV
capabilities and asked how effective CCTV been in helping the RVIPF to detect
crime.
208. The CoP responded that CCTV is a critical crime-fighting tool for the RVIPF
and he could list many occasions in the past where the cameras were used to
convict persons of serious crimes. The CoP added that the RVIPF is rebuilding
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their CCTV capabilities through a project that is funded by the Caribbean
Development Bank (CDB) but admitted that the process had been far too slow.
209. There were ongoing discussions regarding obtaining the CCTV cameras and the
process and procedures that are in place with the CDB in order to obtain the
moneys to purchase the equipment.
210. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2220 PREMIER’S OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office (FPOPO)
211. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked the panel to state their names and positions for the record.
212. The Ag.PSPO stated that she did not have a presentation as most of the requests
for the Premier‟s Office were fulfilled with internal discussions with the
Ministry of Finance and they are satisfied. The Ag.PSPO, however, requested
funding in the amount of $300,000 for the Trade and Investment Promotion
Unit, to prepare the Department for the implementation of their investment
programme when the Economic Substance Regime comes on stream.
213. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District asked the
Ag.PSPO what is the role of the Permanent Secretary in the Premier‟s Office.
The Ag.PSPO responded that the role of the Permanent Secretary in the
Premier‟s Office is an adviser to the Premier as it relates to strategic
development of the Government‟s agenda, policy development throughout
Government, coordinating and monitoring of the overall Legislative Agenda
across Ministries.
214. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District indicated that
based on the Ag.PSPO response, he recalled seeing an advertisement for the
Permanent Secretary‟s position and that a contract was signed based on her
explanation of the duties.
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215. A question was posed as to the salary range of the Permanent Secretary. The
Ag.PSPO responded that the post is in Grade 19 – salary range from $78,043 -
$107,071.
216. The Member for the Second District thanked the staff of the Premier‟s Office for
being steadfast in their duties and for helping the Cane Garden Bay Community
as well as the Second District Community for the revitalisation of the tourism
product. He noted that there was a balance remaining and he was hopeful that
the work that was started in 2018 would be completed.
217. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports inquired about the staffing loss in the Premier‟s
Office. The Ag.PSPO responded that the Premier‟s Office has a few vacancies
and the recruitment process to fill the vacant positions had begun.
218. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Standing Finance Committee.
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SUBHEAD 22204092 INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office (Ag.
PSPO)
Ms. Desiree Smith Chief Information Officer (CInfO), Department of
Information and Public Relations
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office (FPOPO)
219. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record. The Chairman
informed the CInfO that she had six (6) minutes to make a presentation.
220. The CInfO gave a brief presentation to the Committee and highlighted the
following requests that have been outstanding for the department:
Audio Visual and Photography Equipment (mixers, microphones,
laptops, printers, rechargeable batteries) - $32,723.72
Sling Studio Mobile Production Kit and the accessories (live coverage
on social media) - $3,938.64
Canon Copier Printer (Graphic Production Unit) - $55,000
Adobe Creative Cloud Software - $17,573.00
Collateral Apple Products - $14,502.00
Grand Total $123,737.36
221. A question was posed regarding the out-dated equipment being used for
Christmas recordings. The CInfO responded that last year the department
received two photo cameras and two video cameras that have been very
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necessary to ensure that the quality of their productions of the Christmas
recordings among other things have been improved.
222. The Member for the Second District indicated that he is 100% in support of the
department‟s request to keep the Government on the cutting edge. He is also of
the view that a proper facility needs to be identified so that the department can
function at its optimum. The Member also commended the CInfO and her team
for their hard work.
223. A question was raised regarding more information being distributed to the
public on the role and functions of Government departments as well as
information being easily accessible to the public. The CInfO stated that it is
necessary to create a comprehensive campaign across Ministries relative to the
departments that would help to disseminate information to the wider public.
224. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District commented
that the Premier‟s Office did a lot of work in terms of the new portal bvi.gov.vg,
where forms and the process to fill those forms are on the site and it was just a
matter of taking it to the next level.
225. A concern was raised with regards to the difficulty in navigating the website to
obtain information and forms and that the site needed to be more user friendly.
226. The Ag.PSPO stated that Members would be aware that the Premier‟s Office
launched the e-government strategy with the pilot for the labour and
immigration system. She noted that the wider programme under the e-
government strategy is to bring greater efficiency to the services and make
information more readily accessible to the general public, which would include
accessing the forms and helping persons to navigate through the various
processes.
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227. Concerns were also raised regarding receiving timely and accurate
dissemination of information.
228. A question was posed regarding the number of staff assigned to the Premier‟s
Office. The CInfO responded that each Ministry has one Information Officer
and the support of the department.
229. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2221 VIRGIN ISLANDS SHIPPING REGISTRY
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s
Office (Ag.PSPO)
Capt. Anantharaman Balasubramanian Acting Director, Virgin Islands Shipping
Registry (Ag.DVISR)
Ms. Barbara Smith Senior Administrative Officer, Virgin
Islands Shipping Registry (SAOVISR)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s
Office (FPOPO)
230. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
231. The Ag.DVISR made a presentation to the Committee and highlighted the
following:
The Virgin Islands Shipping Registry is the maritime administrator for the
Territory;
Vested with authority to administer and enforce the international law such as:
Safety of life at sea;
Marine pollution;
Low line convention;
Maritime Labour Convention
Noticeable work of the VISR:
Survey and certification of domestic and international passenger ferries; and
Issuance of coastal craft licences and boat master‟s licences.
Staffing
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Requested an additional staff of one Surveyor;
Requested a new post in grade 12 – Accident Investigation officer;
There are additional positions that would need to be filled before
September 2019; and
Hiring of a Consultant to draft new legislation - $50,000
Office Accommodation
Cleaning of office files - $30,000;
Relocating to 3rd floor of the RG Hodge Plaza; and
New furniture and office equipment - $110,000
Vehicle
Requires a new vehicle - $32,000
232. The Member for the Sixth District inquired about the amount of moneys
outstanding which the Ag.DVISR estimated that approximately $1.5 million is
outstanding. Due to hurricane Irma, the office fell behind in collection. To date
the VISR has collected approximately $80,000.
233. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2222 CENTRAL STATISTICS OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mr. Raymond Phillips Director, Central Statistics Office (DCSO)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
(FPOPO)
234. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked them to state their names and positions for the record.
235. The DCSO made a brief presentation to the Committee and highlighted the
following:
Challenges:
Requires a proper Data Collection System (present system is a manual
system); and
Statistics Act is outdated (implemented in 2005)
236. The DCSO stated that the next Census will be in 2020 and the information will
be collected using tablets instead of paper to collect the data. He added that
additional training and equipment will be required.
237. The DCSO reported that the office was presently out in the field conducting a
standard of living survey, but due to the difficulty in obtaining the necessary
information, he was of the view that the office would not meet the target of 1000
surveys by June, 2019.
238. The DCSO spoke at length of the difficulties in obtaining information from
persons in the Community when conducting surveys.
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239. The Member for the Third District shared his dissatisfaction with the results that
he is receiving from the Statistics Department and noted the concerns shared by
the DCSO. He opined that something had to be done, as statistics is vital for any
Government in planning.
240. The Member for the Third District inquired about the staff complement to which
the DCSO replied approximately 22 persons.
241. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member asked if there were any
plans in place for public relations campaigns that will get people excited about
giving the information, in addition to finding creative ways to make the public
understand the importance of giving the information.
242. The DCSO stated that before every survey or any data collection activity is
done, the office does publicity campaigns. The DCSO reported that he would
utilise all form of communications (radio and TV) so it was not a matter of
persons not being aware. The DCSO concluded by stating that he would
welcome any suggestions or ideas that would get the message out there that
collecting this data is of the utmost importance.
243. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports inquired whether the DCSO had access to NHI data.
244. The DCSO stated that he had a meeting with the Director of the Social Security
Board, but to date, he had not been given access to the data but it was requested.
245. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2225 TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mr. Gregory Adams Chief Planner, Town and Country Planning
Department (CP)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
(FPOPO)
246. The Chairman welcomed persons to the Standing Finance Committee and asked
them to state their names and positions for the record.
247. The CP requested the following items:
Computer Equipment and other hardware - $40,000
Requested three (3) additional vehicles
248. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District stated that at the Central Administration Complex there were
about six (6) vehicles that could be rented on a daily basis and inquired if those
vehicles could work for the CP.
249. The CP responded no and stated that due to the protocols in place for the use of
the vehicles, if the department is to be responsive when contractors require site
inspections, the office would be required to have dedicated vehicles to use.
250. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member inquired whether there were zoning
law and if the CP recommended zoning laws.
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251. The CP stated that the BVI does not have zoning laws and he is in support of
zoning laws. He reported that the department is in the final stages of the
national physical development plan that they have been working on for the last
two years. The first step in zoning is having a land use vision and through the
plan, the department now has a land use vision. If the Government chooses to
enforce the land use vision, the department can create certain zoning techniques.
252. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2226 TRADE, INVESTMENT, PROMOTION AND CONSUMER
AFFAIRS
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mrs. Karia Christopher Director, Trade, Investment Promotions and Consumer
Affairs
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer (FPOPO)
253. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
254. The Director made a request for a vehicle for the department for $23,995 (2019
Hyundai Tucson from TAG)
255. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports inquired if there was an on-going programme to give
assistance to Small Businesses.
256. The Director responded that there was not an on-going programme to her
knowledge. She stated that in the previous administration, there were two
specific programmes for generators and grants for ($500,000) which were
distributed in three increments. The Director added that the funds have been
exhausted and there were several applications pending.
257. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports inquired if there were persons still making requests.
258. The Director responded in the affirmative.
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259. The Junior Minister of Tourism and Territorial Member asked what the criteria
were for granting non-belongers trade licences.
260. The Director responded that there is an extensive criteria for non-belonger trade
licences. She stated that there were different categories but noted that a non-
belonger is required to provide the following documents:
Police Report (no older than 6 months);
2 references
Personal reference
Bank reference
Cover letter
Current passport from their home country
Passport picture
261. The Director continued that the Department of Trade does the assessment
internally; however, the department does not make a decision on the non-
belonger trade licences without the endorsement of the Premier or the current
Junior Minister for Trade.
262. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired whether the Director kept a database of the number
and locations of trade licences as he had observed that there were a number of
persons located in the same area with similar businesses.
263. The Director responded that there was an unwritten rule where any person who
is a BVIslander or Belonger should be able to get a trade licence in whatever
field that they deem necessary. She added that in most cases the persons are
BVIslanders and the department has been concerned about the number of trade
licenses that have been approved for (car rentals, beauty salons etc), however,
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until the Premier of the day says otherwise the department cannot make a
decision on its own.
264. The Junior Minister for Trade and Territorial Member inquired what was done
for businesses that were operating without licences.
265. The Director responded that a company or building that was operating without a
licence would be issued a cease and desist letter. She added that practice had
become a very dangerous procedure in the last few years and the department
have now maintained a good relationship with the RVIPF who would
accompany them to issue the order. She noted that the issue faced is the follow
up and indicated that they did not have the manpower as there was only one
Trade Inspector for the entire BVI. They now ask the Police to follow up on the
department‟s behalf.
266. The Junior Minister for Trade and Territorial Member inquired how does that
factor in to potentially consumer protection coming into play in terms of
inspection.
267. The Director responded that it factors in a lot; however, because the laws are not
yet in place, it still gives those many barriers that they are still not able to
control.
268. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member recalled the procedure that is done
when a person is operating without a trade licence and inquired why the
department did not shut down the business.
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269. The Director stated that cease and desist is the legal term and the department
could not revoke something that does not exist. Since the licence is not a
registered licence, the department could only issue a cease and desist order.
270. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2227 BVI FINANCE LTD.
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Ms. Elise Donovan Chief Executive Officer, BVI Finance Ltd.
(CEO)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
(FPOPO)
271. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked them to state their names and positions for the record.
272. The CEO gave a brief presentation to the Committee and highlighted the
following:
Vision of BVI Finance
Innovative;
Efficient;
Respected international marketing;
Promotion organisation.
Three (3) key objectives
Secure the integrity and credibility of the BVI within all relevant
international institutions and commercial organisations;
Reinvigorating its reputation as a well-regarded reputable finance and
business centre of substance which provides a high quality of client
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service across the globe across a range of business and financial
services;
Deepen local stakeholder understanding of the BVI Business and
Financial Services Sector.
Looking Ahead
Mitigate the threats that are coming from the UK, EU and other
international bodies;
Maximise the evidence based approach through robust thought
leadership initiatives especially aligning with key markets development
in Asia, Latin America and Africa;
Develop and promote new products and diversification of business and
financial services proposition;
Grow value added services which demonstrates economic substance;
Deepening the understanding of the business and financial services
sector in the BVI as a jurisdiction itself.
273. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
commended the team for the work they have been doing. He inquired if there
had been any reports of adverse effects on the registration of businesses.
274. The CEO responded that over the last two years the financial services industry
has had some of the best growth in the last two decades particular in the last
decade. The industry has seen as much as a 20% growth. Unfortunately,
because of the uncertainty concerning economic substance and the whole notion
about public registries has created a sort of uncertainty in the market where
people are taking a wait and see approach. Some of our biggest service
providers (Vistra is the largest service provider) claim that they represent about
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20% or more of the incorporations in the BVI and for the 1st quarter of 2019
they reported a 35% drop.
275. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member asked
what is economic substance as it relates to having a presence in the BVI.
276. The CEO responded that the European Union has the requirement for the BVI to
demonstrate substance in the most basic term. It is to demonstrate we have
premises, economic activity and people; so generally, we have to demonstrate
that we have core income generating activities in the jurisdiction to be defined
as tax resident in the BVI. It is either you declare tax residency elsewhere or if
you were declaring tax residency in the BVI, then you would have to
demonstrate substance.
277. The CEO further stated that the QC who drafted the legislation Michael Kernis
and Steve Johnson the advisor, will be visiting the BVI and will be presenting
the code which is essentially the guidance or interpretation of the legislation
(Economic Substance Companies and Limited Partnerships Act 2018), to give
people a better understanding of what substance means and what is required.
She added that an education forum would be held at the College on 24th April,
2019.
278. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired whether the
CEO partners with the Tourist Board when marketing and promotion the BVI.
279. The CEO responded that the department had collaborated with the Tourist Board
and the Shipping Registry with activities such as the boat shows that were held
in Monaco and Florida and they plan to continue such partnerships.
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280. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District commended
the CEO and her team for the work they have done within the Financial Services
Industry.
281. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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HEAD 2228 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Ms. Najan Christopher Acting Director, International Affairs Secretariat
(Ag.DIAS)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office (FPOPO)
282. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked them to state their names and positions for the record.
283. The Ag.DIAS stated that she did not have a presentation and was open to
questions from the Members.
284. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member asked
what does she foresee as her greatest goals with regards to regional affairs.
285. The Ag.DIAS responded that one of the goals that the department has for the
Territory is to join cariforum. They recently joined the Association of Caribbean
States (ACS) but are taking steps to enhance and deepen their relationship with
the region. There are many things about the Territory that the region does not
appreciate and we have not been able to do as good a job of making sure that our
other counterparts know and learn more about the situation. Certainly, the
passage of hurricanes Irma and Maria as well as Brexit and other things that are
taken place now will cause us to deepen that relationship to the point where we
enhance the appreciation for the Territory, as well as to provide opportunities for
us to have development assistance in areas where we can cooperate with the
region.
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286. The Ag.DIAS further stressed that Brexit is quite significant for the BVI
because the European Union is one of the organisations, which does not
specifically exclude the Territory from participating in projects and
programmes. With the United Kingdom potentially leaving the European
Union, we would no longer be in a position to benefit as much as we currently
do. We want to join cariforum, which would keep us within the European
family. Europe has a policy where they are specifically calling on the countries
in the region to cooperate and collaborate with the Overseas Territories, the
Dutch, the French, the outer most regions of France and all the Countries and
Territories in the region in particular.
287. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the Brexit Committee in the Premier‟s Office
288. The Ag.DIAS stated that the Brexit Committee last convened a meeting in
January, 2019. The Committee is still active but in terms of monitoring where
things are with Brexit, the Committee is paying attention to the discussions.
There is a limitation on what the Committee is able to carry forward in terms of
the work because there is so much uncertainty, the Committee did not know
whether the BVI would be a part of the European Union as some of the
Members of Parliament are pushing for that.
289. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
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BVI PORTS AUTHORITY
Present:
Mr. Lenius Lendor Managing Director, BVI Ports Authority (MD)
Mr. Japheth Stevens Deputy Chief Finance Officer, BVI Ports Authority
290. The Chairman welcomed everyone to Standing Finance and asked persons to
state their names and positions for the record.
291. The Managing Director of BVI Ports Authority (MD) stated that the BVI Ports
Authority was in the rebuilding phase after the devastation caused by the 2017
hurricanes. He stated that there were a number of objectives set for this year and
one being the reopening of the West End Ferry Terminal Temporary Facility.
The MD stated the BVI Ports Authority was working towards an International
Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code compliance inspection. This
compliance inspection was mandatory and was scheduled for November 2019.
In preparation for the compliance inspection the Ports Authority had undertaken
a number of projects to ensure that all ports facilities were in compliance so that
the Authority could achieve full ISPS compliance.
292. The MD informed the Committee that for the first time in history of the
Authority they would own and operate their own cargo/container handling
equipment. He said currently he was working on the revision of the Regulations
and Legislations to have them up to international standards. He stated that the
existing facility needed to be expanded so that the layout would be more
efficient to cater to future growth and increase demand of the port services. He
said the lands located east of the Ports Authority that the Ports had vested
interest in, the adjoining lands occupied by Fisheries and land further east of
that.
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293. The Premier and Minister of Finance inquired from the MD what he saw that we
were able to accomplish from the Sea Trade trip.
294. The MD stated that the main accomplishment from the Sea Trade Trip was the
agreement and principal from Norwegian cruise line who has agreed to look at
making some of their berths available under their agreement that they rightly
supposed to have since they will no longer be using them to their own
acknowledgement. He stated that Norwegian would be respond back to BVI
with the view to clarify the days they will make available with intention of BVI
negotiating with other cruise lines to come to the BVI shores. However
Norwegian will still be paying the head taxes whether they come or not as per
their agreement. He said $20 million would still benefit the economy and
alternative cruise lines was been sorted to come to the BVI shores.
295. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District thanked the
Premier for doing the peoples work. He asked the MD when did he join the BVI
Ports Authority and when did he learn of the situation with Norwegian cruise
lines.
296. The MD stated that he joined the Ports September 2018 and he learnt of the
situation with Norwegian right after taking up the post. He said that he was
familiarizing his-self on the berthing agreements and was brief by the Deputy
Director and other senior officers at the Ports.
297. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District asked the MD
if he tried to resolve this situation before going on the Sea Trade Trip this year.
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298. The MD stated that discussion was had with Norwegian prior to the trip with the
anticipation while at Sea Trade they would meet face to face and have further
discussions.
299. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration stated that Gun
Creek was a very busy area specially now with all the constructions been done
on the neighboring islands. He said that the bathrooms were destroyed during
the hurricanes and a number of volunteers got together and repaired them. Now
that the bathrooms were fully restored the Minister inquired as to how soon
Ports Authority can get a cleaner in place so that the keys can be turn over to
Ports Authority.
300. The MD stated that the Ports Authority was working on getting a cleaner. He
stated a Mr. Alec George had agreed to clean the bathrooms free of charge once
Ports Authority provided all the toiletries and cleaning supplies. He stated that
they were advised to have an agreement drafted so that it would be signed. The
agreement is being worked on for Mr. George‟s signature.
301. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the panel for their appearance and presentation. He stated that this was a
transitional Budget as there are challenges that the Government was facing and
asked that the department be patient.
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HEAD 2329 MINISTRY OF FINANCE
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Alva McCall Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance
(DFS)
Mrs. Maria Smith-Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
Mr. Ronald Emmanuel Budget Coordinator, Ministry of Finance (BC)
Ms. Tiffany Todman Budget Analyst, Ministry of Finance (BA)
Ms. Tuneisha Johnson Budget Officer I, Ministry of Finance (BO)
302. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
303. The Chairman asked if there was a presentation any member of the panel would
like to make.
304. The FS indicated that he did not have a presentation and noted that he would
like to outline the accomplishments of the Ministry of Finance for 2018 as well
as the objectives for 2019.
305. In 2018, the FS indicated that the MOF was able to:
Return to the CAC in March 2018 after the 2017 Hurricanes
Access a $50 million-dollar policy - based loan from the Caribbean
Development Bank (CDB) to assist with expenses
Obtain 132 Cabinet Decisions, 75% of which were papers submitted
directly from the MOF.
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Provide input on 40 pieces of legislation, 26 of which were statutory
instruments/regulations and 14 of which were bills
Join the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) in
2018 to obtain insurance coverage for the Government of the Virgin
Islands in the event of a disaster.
Establish a Policy Unit to assist the FS with preparing comments for
papers submitted to the Ministry for revision.
Implement Phases 1 - 3 of the AMLCFT which is an assessment of
Government Departments based on the Financial Action Task Force
(FATF) criteria.
Sign an MOU between the MOF and the Recovery and Development
Agency (RDA) to govern the relationship between both agencies.
Gain approval to develop a new Procurement Act which has been
drafted and submitted to Cabinet for approval.
Maintain a regional rating of AA- from the Caribbean Information and
Credit Rating Services Ltd. (CARICRIS)
Finalize and submit the audited Financial Accounts for the years 2012
to 2015. The 2016 Financial Accounts Audit was received by the FS
and is being reviewed for onward submission to Cabinet.
Process and pay over $6.3 million in compensations
306. The FS noted that in 2019, the MOF plans to:
Obtain a sovereign rating for the Government of the Virgin Islands
from international rating agencies.
Establish and train a Standing Negotiation Team for projects over
$50,000.00.
Strengthen the operations of the Treasury Department which would
include the migration to the International Public Sector Accounting
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Standards (IPSAS). As well as move towards having consolidated
accounts for the statutory boards and state-owned agencies.
Develop an Asset Management Framework for all Government assets.
Collect data on revenue arrears from all revenue generating
departments
307. The Chairman opened the floor for questioning by the Members of the
Committee.
308. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the core functions of the MOF with regards to
funding and how it is allocated to Ministries.
309. The FS stated that the MOF‟s main function is to develop, implement and
evaluate the annual budget estimates for the Government. He noted that there
are certain rules/procedures that ministries and departments would have to
follow with regards to the funding for their budgets.
310. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District referred to funds allocated in the budget to pay outstanding
bills and inquired about reallocation of those funds to priority areas.
311. The FS stated that the Government‟s priority is to pay any obligations incurred
on its behalf and that the funds cannot be reallocated for any other purpose.
312. The Member for the Second District commended the FS and his team for the
work that they have done for the Government. He referred to the MOF‟s plan to
obtain a sovereign rating and inquired about the goal behind that initiative.
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313. The FS explained that to finance the BVI‟s recovery, funds would have to be
borrowed. He stated that by obtaining a sovereign rating, the BVI could receive
better terms or rates when borrowing.
314. The Member for the Second District inquired about what course of action is
available for departments/ministries that have not submitted reports on revenue
arrears.
315. The FS stated that that there is an option to have Accounting Officers report on
revenue to be collected for their departments. He noted that there is also a
provision within the Public Finance Management Act to surcharge persons
where there is evidence of misconduct with regards to the collection of revenue.
316. The Member for the Second District pledged his support to the FS with regards
to doing what needs to be done to collect outstanding revenue and cut down
outstanding debt.
317. The FS thanked the Honourable Member for his pledge of support.
318. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District noted that he
shares the concerns of the Member for the Second District with regards to
revenue collection. He also commended the FS and his team for bringing the
Territory back from where it was in the aftermath of the 2017 hurricanes.
319. The FS thanked the Honourable Member for his kind words.
320. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about who the FS would blame for the non-
collection/loss of funds.
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321. The FS clarified his earlier statement and explained that with the
implementation of a Standing Negotiation Team, the Government would be able
to potentially save millions of dollars. He stated that the MOF is dedicated to
maintaining certain ratios with regards to the Protocols for Effective Financial
Management.
322. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member noted
that the nation was not pleased with the handling of the country‟s finances. He
referred to the $6.3 million that has been paid out in compensations and asked if
that was the total amount that the Government would be exposed to for payment.
323. The FS indicated that the $6.3 million referred to the compensations paid out for
2018.
324. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member asked
if the payments for possible compensation were completed.
325. The FS indicated that there is an undefined number of potential liabilities that
exist and noted that he does not think that the MOF will ever be done with
compensation payments.
326. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about whether the MOF has any idea of the Government‟s level of
exposure with regards to compensation payments.
327. The FS stated that he could not give a definitive answer to the Honourable
Member‟s question.
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328. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
thanked the FS and noted that the Committee looks forward to the completion of
the 2017 and 2018 audited financial accounts.
329. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2330 CUSTOMS
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Mr. Leslie Lettsome Acting Commissioner, HM Customs (AgCOC)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
Ms. Marieta Isles Senior Administrative Officer, HM Customs
(SAOHMC)
Mr. Shawn Netwon Acting Finance Officer, HM Customs
(AgFOHMC)
Ms. Tashima Martin Senior Officer for the Internal Audit Unit of HM
Customs
330. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
331. The Chairman asked if there was a presentation by any member of the panel
would like to make.
332. The AgCOC indicated that there was a presentation to be made and began by
expressing his gratitude for being afforded the opportunity to become the Acting
Commissioner of Customs.
333. In his presentation, the AgCOC noted that:
In 2018, the Department was able to bypass its target of $27 million for
revenue collection by earning over $43 million. A total of $1.7 million
of the total revenue collected came from the environmental levy that
was recently implemented
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There are some major staffing concerns as the Department lost several
persons after the 2017 hurricanes for economical and personal reasons.
He also noted that some persons are to retire and there are others who
are expected to leave the Department for various reasons.
There was an agreement in 2007 for the raising of salaries for the staff
of the Department. However, that agreement was never materialized
and it remains a concern.
Most of their marine assets were lost in 2017 due to the hurricanes. The
Department received a new boat in 2018 and recently received another
vessel which had been sent for refurbishing. Two additional boats are
expected to be received by year end, one of which belongs to HM
Customs and the other belongs to the Royal Virgin Islands Police
Force.
In December 2018, two K9 officers were retired and two new K9s
were received in February 2019.
The Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park continues to be a challenge as it
is a HM Customs regulated area and there are no facilities for officers
to operate from.
The Customs Automated Processing System (CAPS) has been working
very well for the Department in terms of their ability to collect data. He
stated that they have also been using the Cognos Reporting System to
analyze data. He noted that this system can be interfaced with the
Border Management Tool which soon be implemented by the
Immigration Department.
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The Department will be implementing additional features for the CAPS
system such as the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS),
Advance Cargo Information System (ACIS) and the Passenger Name
Recorder (PNR).
334. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
purpose of the environmental levy collected by the Department.
335. The AgCOC stated that funds collected for the environmental levy are collected
by the Department and deposited into the Consolidated Fund.
336. The FS asked that the DFS weigh in on the question asked by the Honourable
Member.
337. The DFS indicated that the Act (Environmental Protection and Tourism
Improvement Fund Act, 2017) only specifies which agencies will benefit from
the environmental levy. She stated that regulations have been recently developed
to determine how the funds should be spent. She explained that:
40% of the funds collected will go towards the BVI Tourist Board for
marketing purposes
40% of the funds collected will go towards the Climate Change Trust
Fund and;
20% of the funds collected will go towards the National Parks Trust
338. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member asked if the moneys
collected were just sitting in an account, waiting to be distributed.
339. The DFS stated that the funds are deposited into a special account. She
explained that once the Regulations have been approved by Cabinet, the funds
will be distributed and that it should also outline the way in which the agencies
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should request funds as well as mechanisms for reporting to ensure
accountability.
340. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about what is
being done to facilitate the easier collection of luggage/cargo from ferries at the
Spanish Town/St. Thomas Bay Jetty in Virgin Gorda.
341. The AgCOC indicated that there are no special plans for the St. Thomas Bay
Jetty. He further stated that at both the Road Town Jetty and cargo area at the
T.B International Airport, baggage scanners have been placed in order to better
monitor the cargo/luggage coming into the Territory.
342. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member indicated that the
AgCOC did not understand her question and provided an example to illustrate
her point.
343. The AgCOC indicated that the ferry operators hold responsibility for the
handling of baggage and noted that the BVI Ports Authority holds responsibility
for the handling of cargo.
344. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member stated that they have
been informed on numerous occasions that that process was dictated to the HM
Customs Department. She noted that at some point in the future, they would like
to have the issue looked at and rectified.
345. The AgCOC reiterated his previous statement regarding the BVIPAs
responsibility for the handling of baggage and cargo.
346. The Chairman indicated that the BVIPA has been summoned to appear before
the Committee.
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347. The Member for the Third District inquired about why the Department is
concerned about the monitoring of cargo at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier
Park if it is designated at a duty – free area.
348. The AgCOC stated that the goods at the Cyril B. Romney Pier Park are under a
Customs bond and noted that unless they are inspected by the Department and
certified for export, the goods are not considered duty-free.
349. The Member for the Third District noted that the issues faced by the Department
have been ongoing since the establishment of the Cyril B. Romney Pier Park and
asked if it mean that they have not been able to execute their duties.
350. The AgCOC stated that they have been able to visit the Cyril B. Romney Pier
Park from time to time and noted that there is no stationary presence at that
location.
351. The Member for the Third District inquired about why the Department would
need to be at the Cyril B. Romney Pier Park on a permanent basis.
352. The AgCOC stated that they are unable to fully or properly execute their duties
due to the lack of a facility for officers to operate from.
353. The Member for the Third District asked if the Department has the authority to
shut down the operations of the Cyril B. Romney Pier Park since they are unable
to fully carry out their duties.
354. The AgCOC stated that in certain cases they were able to partially shut down
operations.
355. The Member for the Third District inquired about what would be needed for HM
Customs to be able to carry out the duties at the Romney B. Pier Park.
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356. The AgCOC stated that the Department would need to have a facility at the
Cyril B. Romney Pier Park for their operations.
357. The Member for the Third District inquired about the Ministry holding
responsibility for the Cyril B. Romney Pier Park.
358. It was noted that responsibility for the Romney B. Romney Pier Park was
recently assigned to the MOF and the Member for the Third District asked if the
FS could promise that the issue will be rectified.
359. The FS indicated that this is his first time hearing of the issue and noted that he
would do his best to ensure that it is rectified.
360. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about which agency holds responsibility for all of the Ports in the
Territory.
361. The AgCOC indicated that the BVIPA is responsible for all Ports of entry.
362. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member stated
that it is important for the BVIPA to appear before the Committee as they played
an important role. He asked if they had ever appeared before the Committee.
363. It was noted that the BVIPA has never appeared before the Committee as only
the statutory bodies that receive a subvention from the Government of the Virgin
Islands are required to attend. It was also noted that the BVIPA can be invited to
appear before the Committee upon request.
364. The Chairman stated that the BVIPA has been summoned to appear before the
Committee.
Page 115 of 260
365. The Member for the Second District commended the AgCOC for the work done
by the Department and inquired about what can be done to ensure that there are
at least two Customs Officers available on Jost Van Dyke to process passengers
who visit the island.
366. The AgCOC stated that they can look at the schedules for the ferry operators and
try to arrange for more Officers to be on JVD during peak operating times.
367. The Member for the Second District inquired about whether the ferry dock in
Jost Van Dyke is designated as a port of entry.
368. The AgCOC indicated that it was.
369. The Member for the Second District inquired about why JVD residents returning
from travel to St. Thomas, USVI are forced to check in at the West End before
continuing on to JVD.
370. The AgCOC stated that they have been a series of consultations with the BVIPA
and the Immigration Department with regards to the facility on JVD because it
is not adequate for regular operations. He noted that at the last meeting, it was
determined that the BVIPA would rebuild the facility on JVD as its foundation
is still stable.
371. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
thanked the AgCOC for the work that the Department has done despite their
operational issues. He also thanked the Department for surpassing their revenue
target for 2018.
372. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2331 INLAND REVENUE
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Mr. Orris Thomas Deputy Commissioner, Inland Revenue (DCIR)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
373. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
374. The DCIR introduced himself and apologised on behalf of the Commissioner of
Inland Revenue for her absence due to a family emergency. He indicated that
there was no presentation to be made.
375. The Member for the Second District inquired about the total amount of revenue
that is uncollected for the Department.
376. The DCIR indicated that he did not have that information readily available.
377. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about the challenges faced
by the Department with regards to revenue collection. He also asked about
whether there were any proposed measures to rectify any of those challenges.
378. The DCIR stated that there is a major issue with the system used by the
Department. He explained that it was outdated, corrupt, unstable and could crash
at any time. He noted that a new system is needed.
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379. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about how much a new
system would cost.
380. The DCIR stated that the new system would cost approximately $3 – $5 million
dollars.
381. The Member for the Third District inquired about whether the Department had
received the support of their Minister for the purchase of this new system.
382. The Member for the Third District stated that he believes that the Inland
Revenue Department should not have to appear before the Committee to ask for
anything because the Minister with responsibility for the Department is the
Minister of Finance.
383. The Member for the Third District inquired about why employers were required
to fill out monthly declarations for their employees while still having to provide
the same information at the end of the year.
384. The DCIR stated that the forms that are filled out annually serve as a means of
reconciliation for the monthly submissions.
385. The Member for the Third District stated that the procedure is a nuisance to
businesses and asked if it could be eliminated.
386. The DCIR noted that for that process to be eliminated, changes would have to be
made to the legislation.
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387. The Member for the Third District noted that there is an abundance of archaic
legislation with the Government of the Virgin Islands that is counterproductive
to modern day business and operations. He stated that it is the responsibility of
the ministries and departments to bring forth the changes to these legislations so
that the can be updated.
388. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired about any other challenges faced by the Department.
389. The DCIR stated that they are facing issues with office accommodation as they
are temporarily located in the CAC in the space belonging to the Ministry of
Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture. He also stated that
they are being faced with issues of staffing with regards to four vacancies that
need to be filled as well as staff members who are at the top of their salary scale
and are unable to receive additional increments.
390. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member noted
that the revenue collected by the Department represents about 14% of the overall
income for the Territory. He stated that the requests of high revenue earning
departments, such as Inland Revenue and HM Customs, should be
accommodated so that they could have all the resources needed to operate fully
and comfortably.
391. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2332 INTERNAL AUDIT
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Dorea Corea Director, Internal Audit Department (DIA)
Mr. Simba Todman Deputy Director, Internal Audit Department
(DDIA)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
392. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
393. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that there was a presentation to
be made.
394. The DIA gave a comprehensive overview and history of the Internal Audit
Department and its functions.
Additional funding is needed for the reconstitution of the Internal Audit
Advisory Committee which will also allow for a stipend to be paid to
members of the Committee.
After the 2017 hurricanes, some members of staff were relocated to other
departments.
Staff members are encouraged to obtain additional certifications; however,
this is not always successful as there is a lack of financial compensation
and commitment.
Internal quality assessments were completed for the Department in
February 2016 and as recent as March 2019. In both instances, the
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Department received a rating of partial conformance to the standards
required.
The Department has completed audits of the following:
i. The BVI Government Pensions and Gratuities Programme
ii. Department of Agriculture operations
iii. The Department of Trade and Investment Promotions
iv. NDB Loan Guarantee Programme
v. The Housing Recovery and Assistance Programme
vi. BVI Post Office operations (eZone)
vii. The ESHS private bank accounts and fundraisers
viii. BVI Government Inventory and Asset Registers – ongoing
Challenges faced by the Department include:
i. Overall Productivity with regards to the cooperation of
Ministries and Departments
ii. Staff capacity
iii. Operational compliance to standards
iv. Non-functional Internal Audit Advisory Committee
395. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District asked if the Department conducts any work on any of the
Sister Islands.
396. The DIA indicated that the Sister Islands are included in all of their audit
activities.
397. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities asked if departments were
usually receptive of the work that they do.
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398. The DIA stated Ministries/Departments are not receptive to their presence.
399. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member asked if there was a policy in place
for the use of Government vehicles.
400. The DIA stated that in the past, a draft Vehicle Usage Policy was developed and
submitted to the Ministries for comments. However, no feedback has been
received to date. She further stated that they are currently conducting an audit of
government assets which will be incorporated.
401. The FS stated that based on the Appropriation Act that is passed every year, the
Accounting Officers (Heads of Departments), are entrusted with the care and
deployment of Government assets under their responsibility.
402. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked if the Department had
considered the use of eGovernment to determine how much it might improve the
efficiency of departments and the saving of resources.
403. The DIA indicated that they had not considered any eGovernment initiatives.
404. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District stated that he believes that the use
of eGovernment should be given consideration.
405. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District commended
the Department for the work that they do as their duties are essential for
Government operations.
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406. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about the Internal Audit Advisory Committee and its functions.
407. The DIA explained that the Internal Audit Advisory Committee is responsible
for overseeing the operations of the Department and make recommendations for
the development of their function.
408. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member asked
if the Department could function without the Advisory Committee.
409. The DIA indicated that they could not function effectively.
410. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member noted
that it is critical to support the functions and needs of the Department. He asked
if the lack of the Advisory Committee affected their ability to submit reports to
other departments who depend on them.
411. The DIA stated that the lack of an Advisory Committee directly impacts their
work as the Committee serves to ensure that the work they produce is accurate,
objective and efficient.
412. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
thanked the DIA for her submissions and for her responses provided to questions
asked by the Committee.
413. The FS indicated that a Cabinet Paper has been drafted to re-establish the
Internal Audit Advisory Committee.
414. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2333 POST OFFICE
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Pascha Stoutt Postmaster General, Post Office (PG)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
415. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
416. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that there was a presentation to
be made.
417. In her presentation, the PG stated that:
The BVI Post had received damages to all of its locations due to the 2017
hurricanes, including the letter boxes.
All staff members from various parts of the island are now located at the
Road Town office. All mail is collected, sorted and distributed to
constituents at this central location as well.
The working conditions at the Road Town office are inappropriate.
A Cabinet paper has been drafted and vetted with regards to the
procurement of new letterboxes as well as the waiving of the tender
process.
There is potential for a proposal regarding self-declared rates put forward
by the USA to cause major issues for the BVI Post. An example was
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provided where the BVI would have to pay the US 80% of how much it
would cost to deliver a packet of mail on their behalf. Similarly, the US
would have to pay the BVI 80% of its cost to deliver a packet. The issue is
that the BVI‟s postal rates are much lower than the US and other countries.
Should the proposal be approved and implemented, it would mean a major
loss of revenue/expenditure for the Department.
A Cost Accountant is needed to ensure that the costs incurred by the BVI
Post to deliver and process mail are adequately covered.
With regards to their 2018 budget, approximately 64% went towards
Personal Emoluments, 23% went towards Contractual Agreements and
13% went towards operational expenses. It was noted that the current
layout of the budget is not feasible.
418. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration referred to the
PG‟s presentation where it states that the letterboxes for North Sound, the
Valley and Anegada will be installed in 2021. He inquired about whether there
were any letterboxes at those locations or whether they were upgrades.
419. The PG stated that the letterboxes were being installed in three phases. She
further stated that the proposal took into consideration the amount of revenue
collected for each location as well as the level of damages received in the 2017
hurricanes.
420. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration inquired about the
revenue collected from the sale of Apostilles/Stamps.
421. The PG provided clarification on the difference between Apostilles and regular
postal stamps.
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422. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member asked if the letter
boxes used by the BVI Post had been boarded.
423. The PG indicated that they were working with the PSSU with regards to
procuring new and improved letter boxes.
424. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member referred to the
construction project currently being undertaken at the letterbox location in Road
Town next to Scotia Bank (BVI) Ltd. She noted that the way the area was
boarded up poses some safety concerns as pedestrians are forced to walk out
into traffic. She asked the PG about who was responsible for boarding up the
area in such a way.
425. The Member for the Third District inquired about the letter boxes at Sea Cows
Bay and the Old Post Office locations.
426. The PG explained that the letterboxes for Sea Cows Bay will be installed in
Phase Two of the project. She stated that the Old Post Office location is not safe
for persons to enter as there are a number of structural and mold issues. She also
stated that the letter boxes at that location are outdated and that the keys needed
to open them are no longer being manufactured.
427. The Member for the Third District inquired about why there was a delay in the
restoration of the letter boxes.
428. The PG stated that the Department was faced with issues of funding and the
resources needed to maintain the boxes.
429. The FS stated that a total of $377,000.00 has been allocated in the Department‟s
2019 Budget with regards to the purchasing/maintenance of the letter boxes. He
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further stated that $119,000.00 had been allocated in the 2018 Budget for the
same purpose.
430. The Member for the Second District thanked the PG for her frank and honest
presentation and responses to questions asked by the Committee.
431. The Minister for Health & Social Development and Territorial Member also
thanked the PG for her honesty and stressed the importance of ensuring that the
revenue earning departments of Government are made to be comfortable.
432. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2334 TREASURY DEPARTMENT
HEAD 4100 PENSIONS & GRATUITIES
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Mrs. Tamara Taylor Financial Accountant, Treasury Department
(FATD)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
433. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
434. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that they would like to highlight
three major concerns of the Department:
The FATD stated that the Department was concerned about the poor office
accommodations, especially their vulnerability to members of the public
who become irate and threaten members of staff.
She indicated that the funds allocated for printing in the 2019 Budget are
insufficient as they are now required to print tickets for the environmental
levy which increases their expenses significantly.
She noted that the Department is short-staffed and that additional positions
are needed.
435. The Chairman noted that the FATD is also slated to report on Head 4100 –
Pensions and Gratuities and asked if she would like to present on this matter.
436. The FATD responded in the affirmative. She stated that as of December 2018,
there were 861 pensioners and that as of March 2019 there were 869. She also
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stated that monthly, the Department pays out approximately $1.1 million in
pensions.
437. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the lack
of credit card machines at Government Department on Virgin Gorda where this
is a shortage of cash available. She also inquired about the minimum spending
limit for credit card machines imposed by some Departments.
438. The FATD stated that with regards to the minimum spending limit, the bank
charges are at such an amount that the Department hardly benefits from
transactions made. She said that if a credit card payment needs to be made and
does not meet the minimum spending limit, she does not see why a request
could not be made to the Treasury for such a transaction to be approved.
439. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member stated that she had
asked the Immigration Department about their lack of a credit card machine and
noted that she was told that they had been asking for one for years. She said that
something needs to be done for better accommodate persons who need to make
payments via credit cards.
440. The FATD indicated that she would need to liaise with the Acting Accountant
General with regards to the Immigration Department‟s request for a credit card
machine.
441. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities inquired about the
availability of inventory with regards to the printing paper for receipts.
442. The FATD stated that the stocks of printing papers are low and noted that they
had had to give Departments limited amounts of paper. She said that the
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Department recently ordered a shipment of paper and is checking to see if it had
arrived in the BVI.
443. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities asked if there was an issue
with the ordering of paper and why there was not enough inventory available.
444. The FATD noted that she was unsure of why the receipts were not ordered. She
stated that the lack of paper may be due to the fact that the paper is stored in the
basement of the CAC where persons are reluctant to go because of the mold.
She said that she would have to clarify this matter with the AgAcctGen.
445. The Member for the Third District referred to the SFC Deliberations for 2017
and inquired about the Accountant General‟s acting position and what is being
done to have her confirmed to the post.
446. The FS stated that with regards to the Ag. Accountant General‟s position, he has
had several discussions with her on the matter. He said that there are a host of
positions within the Treasury that needs to be filled and there are also issues
with staff retention. He noted that the AgAcctGen is need of a Deputy and that
until the staffing concerns addressed, he cannot put forward a request the her to
be confirmed to the post.
447. The Member for the Third District inquired about the consultant that had been
hired to work at the Treasury since 2016 and his role within the Department.
448. The FS stated that one of the functions performed by the consultant was to assist
with bringing the Financial Accounts up to date. The FS said that in working
with the consultant and AgAcctGen, they have been able to make some
appreciable progress with regards to the updating of the Government‟s accounts.
Page 130 of 260
He indicated that the previous Cabinet had recently approved an extension of the
consultant‟s contract who will now be focusing on producing the accounts in the
IPSAS format as well as training Department in how to produce accounts in this
format.
449. The Member for the Third District asked if the accounts were being produced in
the years before the consultant came on board.
450. The FS stated that he could not comment directly on the matter and noted that
when he came on board in 2017 there were seven years of unaudited accounts.
451. The Chairman inquired about who the consultant reports to.
452. The FS indicated that the consultant reports to him on matters concerning policy
and that he also reports to the AgAcctGen on matters concerning the day-to-day
operations of the Treasury.
453. The Member for the Third District stated that AgAcctGen should not be held
responsible for the unaudited accounts and noted the blame is there to be passed
on to where it should be placed.
454. The FATD stated that since the consultant‟s arrival, he has established what the
Department never had before which is a Reporting Unit that is responsible for
producing the reports. She further stated that lack of audited accounts could be
attributed to the lack of staff as the AgAcctGen is forced to do the job of more
than one person.
455. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District thanked the FATD for appearing
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before the Committee and responding to questions asked. He noted the
challenges faced by the Department and stated that the Premier and Minister of
Finance will carefully consider their requests.
456. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2335 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Lucia Donovan Deputy Director, Department of Information
Technology (DDIT)
Ms. Kisheba Sprauve Senior Administrative Officer, Department of
Information Technology (SAODIT)
Mrs. Maria Smith-Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
457. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
458. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that there is a presentation to be
made.
459. The DDIT informed the Committee that the DIT is unable to attend due to her
being on leave. In her presentation, she gave an overview of the Department and
its functions and outlined eight objectives for 2019:
The restoration of the Government‟s wide area primary and secondary
links
Completion of network connections
Migration from the JD Edwards System to the Enterprise One System
Implementation of additional JDE Modules
Work with the Human Resources Department to implement an Applicant
Tracking System.
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Identify, Design and Implement system structures needed to meet
objectives for data evidence for decision making and to enable online
services. Components needed for this objective are:
i. A unique identifier
ii. Central registries or databases
iii. Implementation of data standards
iv. Introduction of common platforms
v. Delivery eGovernment services
Develop IT infrastructure that would be used to facilitate disaster recovery
and sustainability.
Continued deployment IT equipment
460. In summary, the DDIT stated that the Department needs the support of the
Committee with regards to:
Additional funding
The review of the Cabinet Paper to be presented for the Wide Area
Network initiative.
Better office accommodations for staff
eGovernment – there is a need to support the separation of forms and fees
from the legislation so that departments can have a bit more flexibility
Encouraging a discussion among ministries with regards to data sharing
requirements so that agreements can be established where necessary
The passing of important pieces of legislation such as: Electronic
Transactions, Electronic Evidence, Electronic Filing, Electronic Funds
Transfer etc.
Supporting the roll-out of the Unique Identifier system to the public
Supporting the continued lobbying for more affordable internet bandwidth
for the Government.
Page 134 of 260
461. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member stated
that the Committee should look at what could be done to support DoIT with
whatever they as they have been very accommodating and professional in their
work.
462. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member asked if there was a policy in place
with regards to the locking of computers for privacy and security purposes.
463. The DDIT stated that there is a policy in place where users are encouraged to
lock their computer screens when leaving their desks. She also noted that all
computers are set up to lock automatically after a certain period of time.
464. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member suggest that a public education
campaign be implanted with regards to that policy as a lot of person are not
aware of what can be done when leaving their computers unattended.
465. The Member for the Second District commended the Department for being able
to do the work they have done with the amount of resources they have available.
466. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District commended the DDIT for
delivering a comprehensive presentation. He noted that with 90% of the
Government‟s IT infrastructure destroyed in the 2017 hurricanes, the
Department has still been able to deliver a commendable level of service.
467. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee and they
were dismissed.
Page 135 of 260
HEAD 2371 MISCELLANEOUS
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Alva McCall Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance
(DFS)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
468. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
469. There were no questions posed by Members of the Committee.
470. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2372 INTERNATIONAL TAX AUTHORITY
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry Finance (FS)
Ms. Latoya James Director, International Tax Authority (DITA)
Ms. Christilyn Benjamin Deputy Director, International Tax Authority
(DDITA)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
471. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
472. The FS informed the Committee that the International Tax Authority is now a
Statutory Body and that the 2019 Budget Estimates will be amended
accordingly.
473. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that there is a presentation to be
made.
474. In her presentation, the DITA gave an overview of the agency‟s roles and
functions. She noted that:
Prior to the establishment of the ITA, the Territory‟s first information
exchange was handled by the Inland Revenue Department in 2010. The
BVI received 8 requests for information exchange that year.
Due to the establishment of new Tax Information Agreements (TIA) and
the Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance, the ITA receives
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over 400 requests for information per year. In 2017, they received over 600
requests.
The ITA currently has 25 TIAs, 7 of which are not enforced. It was noted
that there is one DTC and that all other relationships were under the
Multilateral Convention.
There are approximately 100 relationships.
The BVI is scheduled to be to be reviewed by the Global Forum under the
new standards for EOIR for which the ITA is the lead agency. The BVI is
also set to be reviewed on the implementation of Automatic Exchange of
Information which means that is necessary for the procedures, systems and
space used by the ITA meet the international standard.
In 2017, the ITA lost several staff members and has been unable to replace
them due to certain issues.
Due to the workload of the ITA, the space currently being occupied by the
agency is no longer adequate for their filing or staffing requirements.
It is proposed that the ITA be split up into 2 main divisions, the
International Cooperation Unit which would deal with handling of all
information including policy and the practical exchange of information.
The second unit, the Compliance Unit would focus on policy and the
practical areas of compliance.
It was also proposed that there be a Legal, Administrative and IT unit
within the ITA.
Page 138 of 260
There are 10 members of staff who perform the functions of the ITA.
There is not a Compliance Unit and they currently rely on the AG‟s
Chambers for all legal matters.
475. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked if the ITA received all of their
requests for information through the Beneficial Ownership Secure Search
(BOSS) System.
476. The DITA stated that BOSS system is used to respond to beneficial ownership
requests from the UK and that there is a specific sharing agreement between
BVI and the UK. She further stated that ITA shares tax information under Tax
Information Exchange Agreements and the Multilateral Convention.
477. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about whether there was a
way to measure if any further action is taken by the bodies that request
information such as the IRS, Her Royal Majesty‟s Revenue Collection Agency
etc.
478. The DITA stated that when the ITA receives a request for information, the
information collected is technically seen as evidence and that they usually ask
the agency requesting the information to provide feedback on whether it was
useful or not. She noted that feedback is usually not received.
479. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked if the information being
requested is kept on file.
Page 139 of 260
480. The DITA responded in the affirmative and stated that they are currently trying
to finalize a database that they were getting from BDO that would keep all of
their requests for information electronically.
481. The Member for the Sixth District inquired about how many members of staff
are needed at the ITA.
482. The DITA stated that the ITA needs to have a total of 35 members of staff.
483. The Member for the Sixth District asked if there was work available for 35 staff
members.
484. The DITA responded in the affirmative and noted that there is more than enough
work available as there is a need to establish a compliance regime within the
ITA.
485. The Member for the Third District inquired about who claims ownership for the
BOSS system.
486. The DITA stated that the Financial Investigation Agency was named as the
authority in charge of the system under the BOSS legislation. She further stated
that there is one person at the FIA who is authorized to go into the BOSS system
and retrieve information.
487. The Member for the Third District asked if there would need to be a change in
the legislation with regards to the way the BOSS system is being used.
488. The DITA responded in the affirmative.
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489. The Member for the Second District inquired about how the ITA raises revenue.
490. The DITA indicated that the ITA is not currently set up as a revenue generating
agency. She said that there is potential for revenue to be collected and noted that
this option is being reviewed with the hopes of incorporating this potential into
the operations of the ITA as a Statutory Body.
491. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about the use of a single person to access the BOSS system.
492. The DITA explained that the legislation requires that another individual be
appointed to act in place of the officer authorised to access the BOSS system in
the event that they are sick or on vacation.
493. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District thanked the DITA for her
presentation and making herself available for questions. He noted that pressure
is being placed on the ITA due to the volume of requests that they receive.
494. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2436 MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES,
LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION
Present:
Mr. Ronald Smith Berkeley Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (PSNRLI)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (DSNRLI)
Ms. Louann Hodge Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration
(Ag.DPSNRLI)
Ms. Linette Rabsatt Acting Human Resources Manager, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
(Ag.HRMNRLI)
Mr. Norval Young Cadastral Information Manager, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
495. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
496. The PSNRLI stated that there was no presentation and the panel was open for
questions.
497. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member expressed her concerns
about the Baths on Virgin Gorda. She stated that recently, non-commercial
grade umbrellas were erected for temporary shade but have since been
destroyed. She wanted to know what plans were in place for a more permanent
solution for this situation which starts from the vicinity of the Poor Man Bar at
the Baths.
Page 142 of 260
498. The PSNRLI stated that there were moneys to spend on development for the
parks in the Budget in the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000.00)
and the issues mentioned by the Junior Minister of Tourism will be addressed.
499. The Member for the Sixth District inquired about moneys that was in the Budget
for her project which was in the sum of forty-nine thousand dollars
($49,000.00).
500. The PSNRLI reassured the Member for the Sixth that her money was still in the
Budget in the sum of thirty thousand one hundred and ninety-one dollars
($30,191.00). He stated because of the Baba Jean Beach project the amount is
less and this was the remaining balance.
501. The Member for the Second District inquired about the bathroom facilities on
the beaches specifically on Cane Garden Bay, on non-ship days. He wanted to
know what plans were in place to address this issue, for residents and beach
goers that visit the beach on weekends and holidays that needed to use the
facilities on non-ship days. The Member for the Second District inquired if the
facilities were only catered for Tourist and if so, what happened to the tax
payers.
502. The PSNRLI stated that the Ministry visited the idea but there was a cost
involved and another issue was, persons vandalising the property. He said
sometimes it seemed like the best option was to keep the facilities closed. This
way, there are no need to keep repairing facilities. The PSNRLI stated that the
point made by the Member was a concern of the Ministry and the Ministry is
trying to find the best options as to how to handle this situation.
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503. The Member for the Second District inquired about the beach wardens and also
about the swim zone areas that were install in Cane Garden Bay after the
hurricanes. He stated that the ground seas had since removed them. The Member
for the Second District said now that it is Easter everyone including the boaters
and Puerto Ricans were anchoring anywhere on the beach and on the Reefs. The
Member for the Second District wanted to ensure that Jost Van Dkye, Brewers
Bay and Cane Garden Bay had their swim zones areas demarcated as well as the
navigating areas mark.
504. The PSNRLI stated that RDA and the Ministry was collaborating to have the
markers replaced. The PSNRLI informed the Member for the Second that there
were moneys under beach development in the Budget and moneys will be
utilities for this project. The PSNRLI stated that the swim zones on White Bay
in Jost Van Dkye were an expense of the Ministry and they were vandalize by
individuals who cut and removed the markers and these were the problems the
Ministry had to deal with.
505. The PSNRLI stated that beach wardens were an issue and this was an issue of
cost to have beach wardens on every beach in the Territory. He said the Ministry
is securing the beaches within the confines of the moneys provided.
506. The Member for the Second District stated that if the Territory is going to push
the beaches as a tourism product then the resources should be made available to
ensure the beaches are properly maintained on a regular basis.
507. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thanked
the Permanent Secretary and his team for appearing before the Committee. The
Premier informed the PSNRLI that the Budget was a transitional Budget and the
Government was maximizing it for the people of the Territory.
508. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
Page 144 of 260
HEAD 2440 LABOUR DEPARTMENT
Present:
Mr. Ronald Smith Berkeley Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (PSNRLI)
Ms. Janice Rymer, Labour Commissioner, Labour Department (LC)
Mrs. Michelle McLean, Deputy Labour Commissioner, Labour
Department (DLC)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (DSNRLI)
Ms. Louann Hodge Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (Ag.
DSNRLI)
509. The Labour Commissioner (LC) gave an overview of the operations of the
Labour Department. She stated that the Labour Department was mandated by
the 2010 Labour Code. The department has a total of thirty-three employees on
Tortola and Virgin Gorda and the department is comprised of five units as
follows;
The Employment Services Unit is responsible for securing jobs for job
seekers and delivering relevant training to prepare them for employment.
The Labour Relation Unit is responsible for dealing with disputed filed by
employees.
The Labour Protection Unit is responsible for inspecting approximately eight
thousand businesses throughout the Territory as well as ensuring that the work
environment of employees is safe and healthy. The department will soon
launch a safety Culture campaign to coincide with International Labour
Organization day which is on the 28th of April.
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The Work Permit Processing Unit is responsible for processing work permits
renewal, temporary permits, new permits and emergency permits, and soon
there will be an online system.
Virgin Gorda Unit functions in the same manner as the office in Road Town.
510. The LC stated that during 2018 the department collected a total of $12 million in
revenue; this represented an increase from $6 million in 2017. This was due to
the influx of skilled workers entering the Territory and the revised Fix Structure
that came on stream in July, 2017. She said that there were many challenges due
to the hurricanes of 2017. The Labour Department building was destroyed and
the Officers were displaced. The office in Road Town has since return for
operations but the branch on Virgin Gorda, the Officers were still displaced and
some Officers have relocated.
511. The LC informed the Committee that recently a Data Analyst has been assigned
to the department and the recovery of the data from 2017 has been fruitful in the
sum of nine thousand plus work permits been recovered.
512. The LC stated that after the disaster the Labour Code was voided in regards to
the Disaster Policy. The department has engaged with consultant with the
Foreign and Commonwealth Office to assess with the 2010 Labour Code. The
consultant has submitted a report outlining the way forward in regards to the
Labour Policy which also encompassed a Disaster Policy.
513. The LC advised the Committee that in order for the Labour Department to
execute all the labour functions and operate accordingly funding were needed
for the vacant positions to be filled to allow the department to operate as
mandated in the Labour Code. Training for the officers to equip them with
better customer service skills and a vehicle for the Workforce Development Unit
were all priorities.
Page 146 of 260
514. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired if there were
any plans for Labour Department to have office hours on the other Sister Islands
of Anegada and Jost Van Dkye.
515. The LC stated that there have been discussion with the Hon. Minister regarding
office hours on the other Sister Islands and plans are been worked on for the best
way forward.
516. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member expressed her concerns
about Virgin Islanders understudying expatriates but the companies keep getting
two and three work permits for individuals from overseas for the same job the
locals were understudying for. She inquired if there were any laws in the Labour
Code that protects locals in this matter.
517. The LC stated yes, that there is protection in the Labour Code that protects
Virgin Islanders, the Section that speaks about understudying where locals a
pared with expatriates who are on work permits for a particular period. The LC
recalled two instances where this has happened and it worked out through
development planning.
518. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired if there were
any statistic on this matter and if so can the Labour Commissioner provide the
Committee with a copy of the statistic for the last five to ten years post Irma at a
later time. To which the LC agreed to provide at a later stage.
519. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District stated that under
the previous Administration that there was a Youth Employment Services (YES)
under the Ministry of Education and Culture, he inquired if the LC saw her
department being able to perform the same functions.
Page 147 of 260
520. The LC stated yes they do, the Youth Employment Services which was at the
Ministry of Education was about jobs. The Labour Department has Employment
Service Unit which will be renamed to Workforce Development Unit. The
Labour Department was about jobs for jobseekers and providing training for
those jobseekers the specifications what the employers has been expressing.
521. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Members for the Seventh District stated that he
would like to partner with the Labour Department to develop some feedback
from the employers that he can report back to the College and the Secondary
schools. He said he wanted to know the skill set that our people were lacking in
the Education system and what they needed to work on. The LC has agreed to
provide the Minister with some feedback from employers that she has received.
522. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
Page 148 of 260
HEAD 2470 LAND AND SEABED MANAGEMENT
Present:
Mr. Ronald Smith Berkley Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (PSNRLI)
Mr. Dwayne Nibbs Acting Chief Survey, Survey Department
(Ag.CSur)
Mr. Michael Potter Acting Deputy Chief Survey, Survey Department
(Ag.DCSur)
Mr. Kelvin Dawson Registrar of Lands, Land Registry (RL)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (DPSNRLI)
Ms. Louann Hodge Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration
(Ag.DSNRLI)
523. The Chairman welcomed the panel to Standing Finance and asked persons to
state their names and positions for the record.
524. The Acting Chief Survey (Ag.CSur) gave a brief presentation. He stated that the
Department was desirable in purchasing a Drone equipment for the department.
He said prior to receiving the 2017 Aerial Mapping images, it took the Territory
fifteen years to receive an aerial update and the last aerial update was in 2002.
However, after the 2017 Hurricanes these images were obsolete, hence the
reason why it was important to purchase the Drone mapping system which will
also be used as an emergency system that will be second to none.
525. The AgCSur explained that the equipment would be able to identify a location
by calculating the shortest route to aid assistance to a person in trouble or
emergency but was unable to provide their address to fire or police department
or the ambulance. He also mentioned that there will be an online subscription
Page 149 of 260
that would generate on average of five to seven thousand per annually per
company and the department was looking for an improved system for realtors
and lawyers as well.
526. The AgCSur stated that with the purchasing of the Drone it can benefit the
Government even before the E-Government subscription came online.
527. The Member for the Sixth District inquired as to the cost of the Drone
equipment the department wanted to purchase.
528. The AgCSur stated that the equipment cost was merely one hundred and twenty
thousand dollars ($120,000.00) and with this equipment, aerial images would be
current and it would save the Territory two hundred thousand dollars
($200,000.00) every ten to fifteen years. There would be real time information
where mapping and researches are done on a current basis.
529. The Member for the Sixth District endorsed the Survey Department receiving
the Drone Equipment as it was truly needed.
530. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired from both Land Registry and Survey Department as to what form of
back-up systems were in place to secure all of their valuable data their
Department have.
531. The AgCSur elaborated that the government has afforded there Department with
the opportunity to be digital. He said that maps and other information within the
Department were scanned and were able to return back online was dependent on
how fast Department of DoIt could restore the servers.
532. The Registrar of Lands (RL) stated that his Department do not have adequate
protection for their data. However, the data was safe after the passage of
Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, but since then, moisture was able to
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penetrate certain parts that were not adequately protected and it was time to have
the system upgraded.
533. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired if the requirement for digitalisation of the data was desirable and if
costing was sorted.
534. The RL admitted that prior to the Hurricanes, digitalisation of the data was being
performed but Department was unable to test the system when the hurricane
came. He said some of the equipment were destroyed but once funding became
available the department would proceed to entering data once again.
535. The Leader of the Opposition and Member the Eighth District indicated that no
funds seemed to have been allocated for construction of the Red Bay
Fisherman‟s Wharf and with the support of the Minister for Health and Social
Development and Territorial Member and Deputy Speaker and Territorial
Member requested that the Minister of Finance reallocate $300,000 for the
development of same which the Minister of Finance agreed to.
536. The Chairman thanked panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2474 IMMIGRATION
Present:
Mr. Ronald Smith Berkeley Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (PSNRLI)
Ms. Rosemary Callwood Acting Chief Immigration Officer, Immigration
Department (Ag.CIO)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (DSNRLI)
Ms Louann Hodge Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (Ag.DSNRLI)
Mrs. Germain Cline Senior Administrative Officer, Immigration Department
Mr. Charles France Account Officer II, Immigration Department
537. The Chairman welcomed everyone to Standing Finance and asked persons to
state their names and positions for the record.
538. The Acting Chief Immigration Officer (Ag.CIO) gave a brief presentation. She
stated that the Immigration Department continues to enhance their operations
and strides to reform the processes, procedures, laws and policies. The
Department aim for 2019 was continued improvement as the Department focus
their attention on customer services training, law enforcement training and to
purchase a Modern Border Management System. These trainings would consist
of enhancing the professionalism of the Officers and assist them to handle their
duties in a more effective way while equipping the officers with the necessary
skills to identify and respond to criminal activities.
539. The AgCIO stated that there was a need to have a more modern Border
Management System. Currently, the Department system is over ten years old.
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540. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member was happy to hear about the
customer service training for Officers but, inquired about the fees collection on
Virgin Gorda by Immigration Officers. She said, currently, that there were no
machine facilities on Virgin Gorda to make payments by credit or debit cards
and she wanted to know the timeline as to when these facilities would be
operation.
541. The AgCIO informed the Committee that the Immigration Department has been
working tirelessly to get these machines implemented at all Ports of entries. She
said that on many occasion the Department has reached out to the treasury
department for the assistance of cashiers to collect the fees and the credit card
machines but to date there has been no assistance in this matter.
542. The AgCIO informed the Committee that she has since reach out to the new
Ministry seeking their assistance in this matter as there is a great need to service
the Public.
543. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District asked how many employees were employed in the Department
and also requested a copy of their profiles. The profiles should include their
education and salary status etc.
544. The AgCIO stated that there were a total of seventy-four employees employed
with the Department and copies of the profile will be furnished at a later date.
545. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District stated that
persons were always complaining that they were unable to gain entry after the
BVI Ports were closed. He said he was not sure which Departments were at fault
and sought clarifications on the matter.
Page 153 of 260
546. The AgCIO informed the Committee that immigration Department deals with
the migration of people in and out of the Territory. If a late clearance is
requested, this late clearance should be requested from the Commissioner of
Customs. It is Customs that deals with the vessels after which Immigration
Officers will be responsible for admitting people into the Territory. Immigration
Department cannot give permission unless the Commissioner Customs at the
time grants permission for the vessel. Immigration only deals with people and if
the vessel is not allowed entry to the Territory Immigration Officers has to
refuse the request as well.
547. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
inquired if the Customs has always been the barrier to deny vessels entries.
548. The AgCIO stated that Customs are the ones who grant permission to any vessel
to come to any of the Ports of entry outside of the Territory whether they are
traveling from outside of the Territory. If it is not an authorise Port of entry they
would also give the permission. Immigration would only deal with the people.
The Department works long side Customs to facilitate the process.
549. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
encouraged the AgCIO to meet with the Department of Information and Public
Relations and have a press release done. Have the message broadcast publicly
on local media as well as social media.
550. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
Page 154 of 260
HEAD 2543 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH
AFFAIRS, FISHERIES AND AGRICULTURE
HEAD 2545 EDUCATION QUALITY ASSURANCE AND SERVICES
HEAD 2548 SECONDARY EDUCATION
HEAD 2564 TERTIARY, ADULT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (PSEC)
Mrs. Connie George Chief Education Officer, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (CEO)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary, Projects Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(AsstSec)
Mrs. Jovita Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(FPOEC)
Ms. Koreen George Accounts Supervisor, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (AcctSup)
551. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
552. PSMEC advised that she was the Accounting Officer for the all departments
under the Ministry with the exception of Library Services and the Department of
Agriculture and Fisheries. She advised that the contract signing for the „L‟
shaped building at the Elmore Stoutt High School was held on the morning of
Thursday, 18th April 2019. She advised that the Ministry was poised to begin
the total build out of all schools in the Territory. Bregado Flax Educational
Center is in line for major works to begin shortly. No works were undertaken at
Isabella Morris Primary School as the Ministry was advised that the remains of
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the buildings were not safe and they need to be demolished, demolition would
cost approximately $30,000.
553. The PSMEC stated that the May-June exams will be held at Save The Seed
Center which will cost approximately $28,000. Virgin Islands Technical and
Vocational School requires a lot of work and equipment, software and training
requires $190,000.
554. The PSMEC indicated that scholarship requests continue to reach the Ministry
as the programme was placed on hold; however, funds have been allocated to
maintain those who are on existing scholarships. She further stated that they had
begun a programme of helping the special needs students in the Vanguard
Programme in Tampa, Florida. She further requested funding for the existing
Assistant Secretary post in the Ministry given the added portfolio of Agriculture
and Fisheries.
555. The PSMEC advised that the restructuring of the Department of Youth Affairs
and Sports continued and they would like to re-establish the afterschool
programme for students in the communities, which cost approximately $210,000
per term to run the programme. She proceeded to request approximately
$200,000 for assistance with the Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP) to
expand which is located in the eastern part of the island to assist the youths of
that community.
556. The PSMEC indicated that the Department of Culture is in the midst of being
restructured inclusive of handling Festival and Fairs and expressed that a
decision should be made to drastically scale back the activities or properly fund
them to avoid having to request a SAP at the end of each year. She further stated
that the Ministry anticipated the building of a national library which would be
situated in Road Town and she hoped to find a suitable location as she was
concerned about the books and where they were stored at present. Recreation
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Trust received a subvention of $750,000, however, the Territory continues to
increase the number of facilities to go into the trust and they are currently in
arrears of 1.5 million dollars for electricity bills and once that is not paid many
facilities would not be able to be used.
557. The PSMEC stated that the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College was a key
player in the development of the Territory and they continued to work hard to
get ensure that the college returned to its original state. She further stated that
they required 12 million dollars to get the school back up and maintain their
accreditations.
558. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District indicated that the
space in Ward‟s building was not sufficient for the staff.
559. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired as to why the Ministry was not using the Multipurpose Sports
Complex to house the students for their exams. The PSMEC advised that the
Multipurpose Sports Complex did not have any air conditioning.
560. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired as to what was
the reason for the Bregado Flax Educational Centre not being on track for
refurbishment. The ASMEC indicated that on 16th April, 2019, a meeting was
held concerning the school as the original scope had changed as the existing
structure may have to be demolished and other concerns were expressed
concerning the existing structures. The ASMEC proceeded to give a timeline for
the contract signing and the commencement and conclusion date for the project.
She further stated that maintenance of the building was a concern as they do not
have a maintenance manager or supervisor as she was responsible for those
duties coupled with her other duties since the 2017 hurricanes. The Junior
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Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member indicated that the material to be
used for the rebuilding of the school should be considered given the traffic.
561. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District inquired
about the above given that the government supposedly left with a lot of money
had grand surpluses from the last Administration. The Member expressed
concerns about the condition of the recreational facilities as well as the books
and resources from our Public Library. The PSMEC advised that the books were
in the „F‟ Block of the Elmore Stoutt High School and were in good condition.
She further indicated that the conditions of the „F‟ Block were not conducive for
the library books or other historical artifacts of the Territory. They were initially
located in the CTL building until the school was instructed to move to the CTL
building. However, some library books and other items were sent to Virgin
Gorda library. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First
District inquired if there was an inventory done of the books and items that were
placed in the „F‟ Block. The PSMEC indicated that the Chief Librarian was
tasked with taking the inventory and thus should have that information.
562. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District inquired
as to why new scholarships were not being allocated. The PSMEC stated that
they were told that there were no funds for new scholarship recipients; however,
only funds were available to maintain those who were already studying,
$600,000 per year over a two (2) year period and nobody has received a new
scholarship since hurricanes Irma and Maria.
563. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District added that there
were approximately six (6) students in attendance in the Vanguard programme,
only one (1) has returned to the Territory thus far. A commitment was made to
them for four (4) years, however in order for them to graduate it would take
longer than the four (4) years. He further stated that it would take 8 million
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dollars to get the scholarship programme started; the Ministry currently had 4.4
million dollars of that amount. The Premier and Minister of Finance and
Member for the First District clarified that 3.6 million was allocated for existing
scholarships and approximately $700,000 for new scholarships.
564. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District inquired
of the amount of money that would be required to pay for the students who were
currently on scholarships abroad which included the Vanguard programme. He
further inquired about the Minister‟s assistance grants which is used to give
financial assistance to students overseas in college and university.
565. The PSMEC indicated that the grant was discontinued. The FPOMEC further
stated that the money was no longer allocated due to the Budget ceiling given at
the time and the amount allocated was $75,000 for which was depleted by
$71,000. The Ministry was requesting an additional $110,000 to be placed in the
said vote. Further discussions were had on this topic. The Premier and Minister
of Finance and Member for the First District further inquired about the
Vanguard programme; the PSMEC explained the process, the number of
students covered and the cost of those students to attend the Vanguard school.
566. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District inquired
about the plans for Isabella Morris School. The PSMEC stated that they were
awaiting a decision on if they were going to build a Junior High School in the
West and another one in the East and just have the senior students at the Road
Town Elmore Stoutt Campus. Since there was still no decision made on that
front, the Ministry was in discussion with the current Minister on a way forward
with the Isabella Morris campus. The Premier and Minister of Finance and
Member for the First District stated that there was a report on the matter that
should have been completed. The PSMEC indicated that the report was
complete and that it gave four (4) options before the build-out of the Elmore
Stoutt High School; she explained the four options. The Premier and Minister of
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Finance and Member for the First District inquired further on the demolition of
the school and who advised that the school structure was weak. The PSMEC
indicated that the Royal Engineers and FDL advised on the structural integrity of
the building. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First
District requested that another opinion is obtained on the matter.
567. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District further
inquired about the functionality of the ESHS in order for it to be ready for
September 2019. The PSMEC advised that the ASMEC was working on that
and that additional funding was being asked to pay for the furniture needed for
the building; they were working with Dr. Drexel Glasgow on that request.
568. The Member for the Second District inquired about the status of the JVD
Primary School. PSMEC stated that that school was under discussion with the
current Minister. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District explained that a
donor has been identified for the rebuilding of the school and works would
proceed in due course.
569. The Member for the Second District inquired about the money allocated for the
refurbishment of the Diamond Estate basketball court as well as for the JVD
School and Cane Garden Bay. The ASMEC indicated that there was structural
damage on the court surface that needed to be addressed, coupled with the
structure with the restrooms and the concessions be completed which has been
incomplete for approximately 10 years.
570. The Member for the Second District inquired about the policy for allocating
scholarships for individuals. The PSMEC advised that the current policy was
that there were two (2) ways that students could apply to obtain a scholarship.
571. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired if the schools and recreational facilities for the Fourth District were
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amply covered under the budget for repairs. The PSMEC answered in the
negative.
572. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the salaries of the Teachers and the plans for a
salary review. The PSMEC stated that she would require additional discussions
with other stakeholders in order to properly answer that question. The Minister
for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and
Member for the Seventh District announced that the Teacher recognition
evening would take place in June.
573. The Chairman thanked that panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2544 YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (PSEC)
Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye Director, Youth Affairs and Sports
Mr. Carnal Cline Chairman, British Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs
Committee
Mrs. Connie George Chief Education Officer, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (CEO)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary, Projects Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(AsstSec)
Mrs. Jovita Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(FPOEC)
Ms. Koreen George Accounts Supervisor, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (AcctSup)
574. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
575. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
afterschool programmes on the Sister Islands and BVI Festival funding and
planning. She further stated that in order to have a successful even at least 8-10
months advanced notice is required for the event to be a resounding success.
576. The Director for DYAS advised that there were no Sister Islands programmes in
2015 when she came onboard. She further advised that there were no tangible
fruits from the programmes given the cost. She further advised that there were
plans to revive the afterschool programmes on the Sister Islands and Territory
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wide. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs
and Sports and Member for the Seventh District confirmed this.
577. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about
insurance for the children as she understood that that was part of the reason why
the programme concluded as there was no insurance for those participating
children. The Director, DYAS advised that she would look into the
aforementioned.
578. The Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development and Territorial
Member inquired about the age range of the youths that the department catered
to. The Director, DYAS advised that the age range was 15-29. The Junior
Minister for Trade and Economic Development followed up by asking if the
age-range of 10-15 would be under a different department. This sparked a brief
discussion on the Youth Policy for the Territory.
579. The Member for the Sixth District inquired about the status of the Youth
Parliament and the activities under the Department of Culture. The Director,
DYAS advised that the Youth Parliament was active but the past participants
moved onto attend college. The Speaker advised that the Youth Parliament will
be moved to the House of Assembly and any additional questions should be
directed to the Speaker or the Clerk of the House of Assembly.
580. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the way forward to re-establish the museums in
the Territory. He further asked for clarity on the afterschool programme and the
Director, DYAS complied.
581. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member inquired if softball was identified
as the national sport. He further stated that sports needed to be taken more
seriously and advised that a system tracking the athletes‟ progress should be
created. Lastly, the Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member suggested that an
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athletes‟ Hall of Fame should be created. The Director, DYAS informed that the
national sport was identified under the last administration and stated that it was
softball; she further stated that the matter was the Attorney General‟s Chambers.
She also stated that there was an initiative pertaining to awards being given for
all sports and have top athletes recognised. This did not materialise but it would
be worked on.
582. The Member for the Second District asked if there was a plan to address having
the children selling water on the side of the road to raise funds to go off and
represent the school. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries,
Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District stated that the
cost is great given the amount of students that participate in sports and go off the
represent their school and the money that the Ministry may have would never be
enough thus they may have to raise their own funds.
583. The Chairman of the BVIFFC referred to the planning for the Virgin Gorda
Festival for 2019 and advised that social media was used to push the event and
that would continue for the August Festival, together with other initiatives
towards marketing the events. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial
Member clarified that she would like monies to be available for marketing and
advertising for the festivals earlier than it has been in the past.
584. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
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HEAD 2547 CULTURE
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (PSEC)
Ms. Anne Lennard Acting Director of Culture (DoC)
Mr. Carnal Cline Chairman, British Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs
Committee
Mrs. Connie George Chief Education Officer, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (CEO)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary, Projects Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(AsstSec)
Mrs. Jovita Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(FPOEC)
Ms. Koreen George Accounts Supervisor, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (AcctSup)
585. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee.
586. The Ag. Director of Culture advised that they have been promoting book
launches on a monthly basis and listed a few upcoming launches. They were
also working on observing International Museum Day which will be observed
during the period of May 20-24. They were also working on a documentary on
the local centurions. They also provide support services to the newly
established BVI Festival and Fairs Committee. The g. Director further
indicated the conditions of the department‟s working conditions and requested
a permanent home for the department. The Minister for Education, Culture,
Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh
District indicated that the 70th Anniversary of the 1949 March was
approaching discussion about reenacting the March has been underway. He
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further indicated that there was a desire to have a festival of the Arts to
celebrate all of the Arts and they would work with the Junior Minister for
Tourism and the BVI Tourist Board to make those ideas a reality. The Director
for Culture further stated that this year is the 25th anniversary of VI Culture
Week.
587. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee.
Page 166 of 260
HEAD 2550 LIBRARY SERVICES
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (PSEC)
Ms. Suzanne Greenaway Chief Librarian, Library Services Department (CL)
Mrs. Connie George Chief Education Officer, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (CEO)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary, Projects Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(AsstSec)
Mrs. Jovita Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(FPOEC)
Ms. Koreen George Accounts Supervisor, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (AcctSup)
Mr. Arnold Thomas Senior Accounts Officer, Library Services Department
(SAcctO)
588. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
589. The Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development and Territorial
Member inquired about the Book Mobile. The Chief Librarian advised that it
was damaged during hurricane Irma, then boarded and sold.
590. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about plans to rebuild a library in Road Town and
the current building housing the library in Virgin Gorda. The Chief Librarian
advised that there were plans to build a National Library in the Road Town.
She further stated that the building in Virgin Gorda was damaged during the
2017 hurricanes, and was repaired and handed back to the Ministry in 2018.
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591. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked
the Chief Librarian to describe the conditions within which she was working.
The Chief Librarian informed that she was seated in the East End Library
since it survived the hurricanes very well and allows them to host the after
school and Saturday programmes. She further informed that some items
belonging to the library were riddled with mould in the „F‟ Block at the ESHS
where they were housed.
592. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District asked about the traffic at the East End Library. She advised that the
traffic had increased due to new initiatives implemented.
593. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired if there were plans to have a temporary library in Road Town prior to
building the National Library and also requested a timeline for the same. The
Chief Librarian advised that she was not aware of any plans to place a
temporary structure for that purpose. The Deputy Premier and Minister for
Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports stated
that there are plans for a National Library.
594. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member advised that there were a few
simple solutions for not having a library such as drop boxes that would be
attached to a library card.
595. The Speaker inquired if the items for the library located in “F” Block were all
damaged. The Chief Librarian informed that there were a few items that were
damaged but not all. She further iterated that the conditions were not
conducive for the library items in the „F‟ Block.
Page 168 of 260
HEAD 2573 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES
HEAD 2573 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture,
(PSECYAFA)
Mrs. Tessa Smith-Claxton Acting Chief Agricultural Officer (AgCAO)
Mr. Orville Clarke Acting Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer
(AgDCAO)
Mrs. Jovita Mercer-Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer (FPOECYAFA)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary (AS)
596. The Chairman welcomed back the PSMECAFYAS to the Standing Finance
Committee Meeting and asked that the staff present be introduced stating their
names and positions for the record.
597. The PSMECAFYAS asked the Chairman‟s permission for the staff to
introduce themselves to the Committee.
598. The Chairman asked if there were any presentations. The AgCAO stated that
she didn‟t have a presentation but she can take questions.
599. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the policy for vendors at the market in Road
Town.
600. The AgCAO stated that she was not completely aware and requested the
assistance of the AgDCAO to answer the question.
Page 169 of 260
601. The AgDCAO stated that as far as he knew the market in Road Town was
provided to be used by persons distributing agricultural products for sale. The
AgDCAO further stated that he was not sure under what conditions the stalls
were built but was made to understand that provision of such stalls were to
ensure that farmers had an outlet for their produce. The AgDCAO also
indicated that he was not sure what contractual arrangement was done.
602. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired whether or not assistance is provided to persons to
have their vendor stalls rebuilt at the market in Road Town.
603. The AgDCAO stated that complaints were received by vendors regarding not
being able to display their produce for sale due to the minimal trafficking of
patrons. The AgDCAO further stated that farmers were not too happy with the
location and requested that another site be located.
604. The AgDCAO stated that there were meetings with the farmers and they
suggested that a proper site would be where Pusser‟s Parking Lot is located
currently.
605. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District also
stated that there have been discussions on having a combined market on
fishing and farming as a part of the vision going forward.
606. The AgDCAO asked the Chairman‟s permission for the AgCAO to speak on
the matter as she was more in tuned with the discussions that have taken place.
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607. The AgCAO stated to the Chairman that she was new at the Department of
Agriculture and that she was fresh and green.
608. The AgCAO stated that many local farmers have complained about issues
regarding marketing their produce. She further stated that the market space in
Road Town has been seen by local farmers as not favourable for marketing
their produce. She noted that a group of farmers have started their own little
farmers market and would come together once every two weeks on Saturday
mornings.
609. The AgCAO stated that they have engaged the farmers as well as Town and
Country Planning Department to find a more suitable site that farmers are
more comfortable with and have more or less decided that the area in front of
Crafts Alive is the best location identified so far in Road Town. She stated that
the area was looked at as being combined as a cultural fisher‟s farmers market;
a day attraction moving into the night where locals and tourist alike can come
seeing that the Craft Alive Village is there and have fresh local produce and
fish in the same location.
610. The AgCAO stated that most of the produce sold in the area is imported
produce from Dominica, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.
611. The Member for the Third District asked the AgCAO how long she had been
in the position.
612. The AgCAO stated that she had been in the position since January, 2019.
613. The Member for the Third District stated that the AgCAO would not have
known when agriculture would have had its glory days.
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614. The AgCAO stated “no” in response to the statement made by Member for the
Third District.
615. The Member for the Third District stated that even when agriculture was in its
glory days they could not have demanded a location that they are currently
demanding.
616. The Member for the Third District inquired as to what was the vision for
agriculture going forward.
617. The AgCAO stated that one of the reasons that agriculture is on the decline is
the lack of a true vision in terms of a policy or strategy direction for
agriculture. She further stated that there is no clear information as to what is
being produced locally, who the farmers are, where they are or what they are
growing and what their needs are.
618. The AgCAO noted the need to know what the market demanded and what can
be grown in the BVI.
619. The AgCAO stated that the next couple of months the focus will be on
understanding what type of agriculture is needed in the Virgin Islands, what is
needed to be done, who are the farmers, what can be farmed, what should be
farmed and outline a strategy from there as to where to go. She further stated
the need to gather more information before responding.
620. The Member for the Third District stated that Agriculture Week is a good
place to start to build confidence in the people and is a week that the farmers
get to showcase their produce. The Member for the Third District encouraged
the AgCAO to go back to doing foundational activities that would restore and
rebuild the confidence in the people and in agriculture.
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621. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
responded by stating that the structure for the vision of agriculture has to be
right.
622. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
further stated that there is proposal for the Agriculture Department to focus on
the regulations of agriculture and to provide technical support through the
extension officers and some level of subsidy.
623. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that the proposal involves the forming of a statutory body that will focus
on commercial agricultural operations.
624. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
further stated that the proposal involved identifying land for commercial
agricultural purposes and should be partnering with farmers through a
cooperative and determine what crops would be produced as opposed to
farmers coming up with what they want to produce, what the market demands,
seek those persons that are serious about agriculture and to ensure that the
plots are productive.
625. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that poultry will be an area of investment, as it is poised for strong
growth through public private partnerships.
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626. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
offered the Chairman and Members to sit with the Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Fairs, Fisheries and Agriculture and develop the vision for
agriculture.
627. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member stated that farming must have a
considerably amount of water and also the land must be cleared for plowing.
He further noted that he had observed houses being built at Paraquita Bay.
628. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member inquired as to what is the
procedure when one farmer gives up property and why is the Government
property at Paraquita Bay not being kept clean or fenced.
629. The AgCAO stated that there is a water issue at Paraquita Bay and the supply
of water is not stable. She further stated that farmers that are higher up in
Paraquita Bay most times do not get water due to pressure issues.
630. The AgCAO stated that there is a lot of repairs needed. She further stated that
recommendations were given to the Ministry for Natural Resources, Labour
and Immigration last year to repair the water line in Paraquita Bay.
631. The AgCAO stated that persons living on the farm in Paraquita Bay has been
an issue.
632. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked
the AgCAO to explain the procedure in obtaining plots and are there any lease
agreements?
633. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated going forward he proposed a cooperative of farmers that can provide
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labour for the plots. A body that would manage the land and determine their
proper use for agricultural purposes.
634. The AgCAO stated that original intention for the land at Paraquita Bay based
on research was divided up for farmers use for short term crops on a lease
system. She further stated that to date only one farmer has gotten a lease in
Paraquita Bay.
635. The AgCAO stated that the people that have plots in Paraquita Bay doesn‟t
have any lease and have just gone, occupied the land and started planting.
636. The AgCAO stated no one has a lease for the agriculture land in Paraquita
Bay. She further stated that after the hurricanes a lot of debris was dumped and
burned and left in Paraquita Bay to this date. The AgCAO asked for the debris
to be removed and stated that Paraquita Bay needs a general cleanup.
637. The AgCAO stated that there were no persons living in two story houses in
Paraquita Bay but noted that there were persons living on parcels of
Government agriculture land in Paraquita Bay.
638. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District stated the need to have a discussion regarding land
occupation and leases for the farmers at Paraquita Bay.
639. The AgCAO stated that a licensing system was discussed at the Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration to allow farmers to use the
property for specific purposes for certain time frames or opt for a lease. She
further stated that it is managed as a commercial center of agriculture.
640. The AgCAO stated that farmers have plots in Paraquita Bay as their back yard
garden for their personal consumption which should be used instead for the
community.
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641. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired as to what was happening regarding Anegada and
Virgin Gorda agriculture lands.
642. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired as to whether or not farming was happening another
place besides Paraquita Bay.
643. The AgCAO stated that there is land in Virgin Gorda in South Sound and
Agriculture Substation that was occupied and owned by the Anglican Church
which is being cleaned up. Another parcel of land has been leased for the
Substation to occupy. She further stated that there is land in Anegada which is
the Angeda substation that was destroyed has one farmer currently using that
property now.
644. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that the same model currently being proposed for Paraquita Bay is being
proposed for the Sister Islands.
645. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired as to what is
in place to track dogs brought in place to the Territory especially if they are
visitors.
646. The AgCAO stated that dogs entering the Territory must get an import permit
and asked the Chairperson that the AgDCAO speak further to the question.
647. The AgDCAO stated that each owner must apply for an import permit and
noted that there have been instances when animals came in without obtaining
the permit and Customs Department knowing the requirement and once
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happened we are called in to ensure the animals are not carrying infectious or
contagious diseases.
648. The AgDCAO stated that the control of animals in restaurants it would be
beyond the Agriculture Department.
649. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member stated that a
conversation should take with Customs Departments regarding animals on
vessels and dogs not being allowed into restaurants unless with special needs.
650. The Premier and Member for the First District thanked the Department of
Agriculture for what they have done so far and pledged the support of the
Government to revive Agriculture and Fisheries.
651. The Chairperson thanked both the AgCAO and AgDCAO for their
appearance before the Committee.
Page 177 of 260
HEAD 2573 CONSERVATION AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports (PSECAFYAS)
Mr. Kelvin Penn Acting Chief Conservation Officer (CCO)
Mrs. Jovita Mercer-Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer (FPOECAFYAS)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary (AS)
652. The Chairman asked that the AgCCO state his name and position for the
record.
653. The AgCCO stated that he didn‟t have any presentation but will answer any
questions posed by members.
654. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired as to whether or not any plans were being
considered as to the handling of the annual Sargassum invasion.
655. The AgCCO stated that Sargassum is not only a huge problem for the BVI but
also for the Caribbean. The AgCCO stated that due to climate change the
Sargussm seaweed has ballooned in population and size going between the
North and South.
656. The AgCCO stated that it has been a problematic situation needing specialized
equipment to clean it at sea and the use of heavy equipment on land.
657. The AgCCO stated that in the past equipment such as excavators were used to
help clean Sargussm which is an expensive to the Government of $20,000 to
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clean one location and by the next day or next week the Sargussm has
returned.
658. The Member for the Second District inquired whether or not as cruise
passengers visit increase to the shores from the cruise ships and day trippers,
will life guards be placed on the beaches to prevent instances where people
could be potentially injured or drowned.
659. The AgCCO stated that the life guard programme has been a vexing
programming initially starting 15 years ago with 12 life guards on staff mainly
from Australia and England. However, over the years because of budgetary
constraints the programme has been reduced and there are only 2 life guards
on duty.
660. The AgCCO stated that he is in agreement that more life guards should be on
duty and in the past the idea of flags was used rather than actual life guards on
beaches.
661. The Member for the Second District inquired as to which beach were the two
life guards stationed.
662. The AgCCO stated that prior to the hurricanes they were mostly stationed in
Josiah‟s Bay and after the hurricanes they are stationed in the office after
losing the Department‟s vehicle.
663. The AgCCO stated that there is plan to transfer the life guards from the
Ministry of Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration to the Virgin Islands
Fire and Rescue Services.
664. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired as to whether or not the life guards were still at the
Conservation and Fisheries Department.
Page 179 of 260
665. The AgCCO stated that the life guards were still at the Conservation and
Fisheries Department.
666. The AgCCO stated that one of the problems they have been facing is that the
programme does not attract any benefits including permanent and pensionable
status.
667. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired as to the
updating of the legislation with regards to the preservation of our environment
in relations to filling in of ponds and cutting out of mangroves.
668. The AgCCO stated that over the years the Department has been struggling
with the issue of protecting the environment.
669. The AgCCO stated that the physical planning act is the instrument that can be
used to protect the environment and there is a new proposal on climate change
that will further help with the protection of the environment.
670. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the
Fifth District wished the AgCCO all the best in his future endeavors.
671. The Premier and Member for the First District thanked the AgCCO for his
work done over the years and wished him all the best in his future endeavors.
Page 180 of 260
HEAD 2573 BVI FISHING COMPLEX
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports (PSECAFYAS)
Mr. Lloyd Williams Manager of BVI Fishing Complex (MBVIFC)
Mrs. Jovita Mercer-Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer (FPOECAFYAS)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary (AS)
672. The Chairman welcomed the MBVIFC to the Standing Finance Committee
Meeting, asked that he state his name and position for the record.
673. The MBVIFC stated that he didn‟t have any presentation but can take
questions.
674. The Member for the Second District asked that the MBVIFC give the true
picture of what happened to the BVI Fishing Complex and his team after the
passing of the hurricanes.
675. The MBVIFC stated that the damage experienced on the BVI Fishing
Complex was extensive and the roof was totally destroyed facing the seaside
indicating that the water was about 12 feet on the inside of the building which
damaged all the equipment.
676. The MBVIFC stated that most of the equipment has been totally destroyed by
the salt water that has been consistent since that time. The staff has been
deployed to different departments such as the National Parks and others have
been dispersed to other areas in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour.
Page 181 of 260
677. The MBVIFC stated that he is currently at Agriculture Department in
Paraquita Bay conducting administrative duties and also assisting with the
issuance of fishing permits.
678. The Member for the Second District asked the MBVIFC to share how
important the fishing industry is to the Territory that will contribute to the
economy.
679. The MBVIFC stated that the fishermen have already found a market for
themselves and the demand for seafood is high.
680. The MBVIFC stated that he would like to see the local fishermen trained
instead of trap fishing and learn to fish from different perspectives of fishing.
681. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that he has had discussions with persons investing in the area and over
the next few weeks he will be having discussions with his fellow Cabinet
Members regarding that particular area and the plan moving forward.
682. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired whether the ban on spear fishing could be revisited
and noted a loss of economic benefits as a result of the ban.
683. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
inquired as to what was the situation regarding the ban of spear fishing over
the past years.
Page 182 of 260
684. The AgCCO stated that the Fisheries Act, 1997 gives provision for the
Minister to allow the prohibited methods such as spear fishing for a specific
period of time.
685. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired as to whether or not the Department has the proper equipment
to patrol and if not what are the plans to patrol.
686. The AgCCO stated that the due to budgetary constraints the moneys to main
both vessels were not there and the ability to patrol has been lost over two to
three years now. They used to conduct survelillance with the marine patrol
from the Police and Customs but that came to a halt.
687. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired as to what would be the penalties for someone caught while
patrolling and would the fine be able to offset the cost for maintenance of the
boat.
688. The AgCCO stated that over the years since 1997 only two instances of
prosecution occurred from the USVI. One of the men couldn‟t pay the fine of
$30,000.00 and spent six months in prison. Since the relationship between the
USVI and BVI the penalties were reduced and stands at a maximum fine of
$15,000.00.
689. The Chairperson thanked the MBVIFC for appearing before the Committee.
Page 183 of 260
HEAD 2652 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Present:
Ms. Petrona Davies Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (PSHSD)
Dr. Irad Potter Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (CMO
Ms. Natalie Fahie-Smith Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSH)
Ms. Tasha Bertie Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (FPOHSD)
Mr. Duane Fraites Assistant Project Manager
690. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
691. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the status of Iris O‟Neal Clinic and the
Doctors in Anegada.
692. The PSHSD stated that the moneys are sufficient and a variation was
processed that incorporated the procurement and installation of the generator.
She stated that projected completion date is September, 2019.
693. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District queried
the date for the completion as a previous date was given for the handing over
of the Iris O‟neal Clinic. He asked if the postponement was a result of the
generator not being installed. He also voiced his concerns about the contract
Page 184 of 260
being incomplete as it has been pending since 2015 and asked for further
information.
694. The PSHSD stated that initially the installation of generator was not included
from the contract. She stated that the handover was postponed because the
contractor was unable to meet the deadline. The PSHSD was advised that the
event would proceed however within a day of the handing over, the contractor
requested an extension to February, 2019 as items and materials were still in
transit. She also informed of an eight (8) week period before the building can
be commissioned before it is handed over to the public.
695. The PSHSD stated that the biggest delay was the agreement on the steel frame.
She stated that the agreement between the engineer and fabricator was time
consuming because of language barriers, as the building is being procured
from China.
696. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District queried
the size and cost of the generator.
697. The PSHSD stated the generator is 750 kilovolts and cost $210,000.00.
698. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 185 of 260
HEAD 2653 AGED CARE SERVICES
HEAD 2655 SOCIAL PROTECTION
HEAD 2665 PUBLIC HEALTH
HEAD 2667 CHILDRED AND FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES
HEAD 2668 DISABILITY SERVICES
HEAD 2669 COMMUNITY SERVICES
Present:
Ms. Petrona Davies Permanent Secretary, Health and Social Development
(PSHDS)
Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett Chief Social Development Officer, Social Development
Department (CSDO)
Ms. Stacie Stoutt-James Acting Deputy Chief Social Development Officer, Social
Development Department (Ag.DCSDO)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (FPOHSD)
Ms. Carmen Rabsatt Senior Administrative Officer, Social Development
Department
699. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
700. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about the spacing issue at
Adina Donovan Home and stated that several member of his community
urgently anticipates admitting family members who are unable to provide
homecare. He inquired about the plans moving forward.
701. The CSDO stated that the reality is, the Adina Donovan Home is a twenty (20)
bed facility. She stated in 2015 there were twenty eight (28) persons, however
Page 186 of 260
to date have been trying to maintain the capacity. The CSDO stated for the
persons who are unable to be provided with institutional care, an alternative is
a grant and home care services. There are currently eleven persons who require
grants, therefore an additional fifty five thousand (US$55,000.00) needs to be
reflected in the budget be able to assist the families.
702. The Member for the Third District stated that several years ago, there was a
Senior Citizen Programme, which would allow them to have activities, meals
and recreation. He also stated the community centers used to be managed by
committees. He asked if such practices would be restored.
703. The CSDOstated that the Senior Citizen programme is still active. She stated
that the seniors meet in the Anglican Church every Tuesday, temporarily while
the Community Center in Sea Cow‟s Bay is being refurbished. She stated that
East End and Carrot Bay Seniors also meets once a week.
704. The PSHSD stated that all ten Community centers were damaged in 2017. She
stated the plan is to restore all centers to be functional. She stated that
negotiations were made with the European Union (EU) for a two million dollar
(US$2,000,000.00) grant which would help to refurbish the center. She stated
that the Long Trench and Anegada centers are fully repaired. She further
stated that the most costly projects would be the Brewers Bay and East
End/Long Look Centers which were severely damaged and requires a scope of
works.
705. The Member for the Third District inquired about the Sea Cows Bay
Community Center.
706. The PSHSD stated that the roof was repaired and the installation of windows
and doors. She stated that the drainage needs to be addressed as well as the
fencing and interior upgraded.
Page 187 of 260
707. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
stated that all the social ills lies with the Ministry of Health and Social
Development and will ensure that they are supported.
708. The Premier and Minister of Finance stated that the social ills of the
Community is appalling and to a high degree. He informed the Ministry that it
is a transitional budget, however would try his best to see what all can be
accomplished and concluded by applauding them for their hard work.
709. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 188 of 260
HEAD 2654 WASTE MANAGEMENT
Present:
Ms. Petrona Davies Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (PSHSD)
Mr. Greg Massicote Manager, Department of Waste Management (MDWM)
Ms. Natalie Fahie-Smith Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Ms. Tasha Bertie Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (FPOHSD)
Dr. Irad Potter Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (CMO)
Mr. Duane Fraites Assistant Project Manager
Mr. Ahdan Doward Waste Management Officer, Department of Waste
Management
710. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
711. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the status
and rectification of;
1) The unsightly conditions and health hazards of the dumpsite
2) Removal of Derelict Vehicles
3) Contracts for Garbage Collection
712. The MDWM stated that currently through the Ministry of Health the Waste
Management Department engaged a Waste Management Specialist to look at
strategies for disposal methods. He stated the consultancy officially ends nine
Page 189 of 260
(9) months starting January, 2019 and thereafter recommendations would be
made through the house and thereafter the strategies would be implemented
based on resources available.
713. The MDWM stated that over the past two (2) weekends there was two major
operations with the RDA for the removal of derelict vehicles in Virgin Gorda.
Based on those operations, two hundred and ninety two (292) derelict vehicles
were removed at the Valley, Virgin Gorda. The MDWM stated that the
departments‟ wrecker was sent to Virgin Gorda to work with haulers in Virgin
Gorda and an additional seventy plus (70+) vehicles were removed within one
week. He stated that he two issues needs to be addressed, the removal of the
remaining vehicles and the need for a new storage location, which also is
dependent on resources.
714. The MDWM stated that there are currently eight (8) contracts for garbage
collection. He stated that garbage is collected seven (7) days a week, in the
Valley and four (4) times a week in North Sound. He stated that bulky waste is
the responsibility of the Department.
715. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District thanked the MDWM for
conducting a walk through at Paraquita Bay and asked when the site would be
cleared.
716. The MDWM stated that the site was designated after the passage of Hurricane
Irma as a debris management hub for the Eastern side of the Island. The site
was officially closed in November, 2017. Restoration of the site is estimated to
cost one hundred thousand dollars (US100, 000.00). The Restoration would
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include removal of scrap metals, garbage and ash and dirt which would be
capped off with soil.
717. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked if the moneys were
budgeted to which the MDWM responded no.
718. The Member for the Third District spoke about dumpsite in Sea Cows Bay and
suggested that Government should invest in the clean-up of the entire
Territory. He stated that the Sea Cows Bay residents are fed up with the site
and an additional site is needed as a matter of priority and urgency.
719. The MDWM agreed that the issue of derelict vehicles is indeed a vexing issue,
however disagreed with the approach of which it is being handled. The
MDWM suggested that HM Customs and BVI Ports Authority should
implement age limit on importation of vehicles as a lot of the vehicles of the
entire Territory ends up at the Mechanic shops or along the road which
increases derelict vehicles.
720. The Member for the Third District asked if there is an alternative site to which
the MDWM responded no. The MDWM stated that they will actively try to
find another site.
721. The Member for the Second District commended the MDWM for doing much
more than is expected due to limited resources. He applauded his
responsiveness and inquired about the Hazardous Allowance and asked if it
was put in place and received to which the MDWM responded no.
Page 191 of 260
722. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District congratulated the MDWM for his good work and inquired about a
derelict fee and asked if it is instituted to which he responded no.
723. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired about his salary scale to which he responded Grade 15.
724. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
stated that in the six (6) to eight (8) weeks working with the department he had
shown great effort in his abilities. He stated that moneys have now been
approved to fund the repairs of the control panel and electrical works of the
incinerator. He stated he was unable to report on the Scrubber as there are
issues with Consultancy. He further stated that the open burning must be
stopped, the incinerator repaired and an alternative landfill site be identified.
725. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for First District also
commended the MDWM for being an ultimate professional. He inquired about
the Scrubber and the state at Cox Heath.
726. The MDWM stated Cox Heath was used as a Debris Management hub since
hurricanes Irma and Maria. The MDWM stated that the fire at cox heath has
been burning since 9th May, 2018. He stated there is an internal combustion
that needs to be addressed. He stated that funds were included in the budget,
however the funds went toward the operations being conducted at Pockwood
Pond on the hill and stated more funding would be need in the region of two
hundred and seventy thousand dollars (270,000.00). He further mentioned that
it would always be reliant of the incinerator being functional, which has been
down since 26th November, 2018.
Page 192 of 260
HEAD 2756 MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION, WORKS AND UTILITIES
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.PSTWU)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works
and Utilities
727. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
728. There being no questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
Page 193 of 260
HEAD 2757 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT UNIT
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (PSTWU)
Mr. Ariel Donovan Facilities Manager, Facilities Management Unit (FM)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works
and Utilities
729. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
730. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities commended the FM for
the work done to the Central Administration Complex since the passage of the
hurricane as he did an exceptional job.
731. There being no further comments, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 194 of 260
HEAD 2759 FIRE SERVICES
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.PSMTWU)
Mr. Zebalon McLean Chief Fire Officer, Fire Services (CFO)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works
and Utilities
732. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
733. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired on the status of the East
End Long Look Fire Station and asked when it would be operational.
734. The CFO stated that the station is operational; however it is currently closed
due to there being no fire trucks on site. The CFO stated that it is expected to
be fully operational in one (1) month.
735. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and the Member for the
Fifth District asked for an update on the Fire.
Page 195 of 260
736. The CFO stated that there was a fire in Mayaba area that started among the
bush that moved in three different areas which threatened the residential
homes however the well trained fire officers were able to contain the fire.
737. The CFO mentioned that persons should be discouraged from burning and
encourage all members to take care of their health.
738. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities acknowledged Ms. Joyce
Cameron for assisting with water to aid in containing the fire.
739. There being no questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
Page 196 of 260
HEAD 2760 WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (PSTWU)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (PSTWU)
(Ag.DSTWU)
Mrs. Perline Scatliffe-Leonard Director, Water and Sewerage Department
(DWS)
Mr. Bernard Grant Deputy Director, Water and Sewerage
Department (DDWS)
Mr. Michael Davis Engineer, Water and Sewerage Department
Mr. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities
(Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Office, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities
740. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record. The Chairman
informed the panel that due to time constraints they should circulate their
presentations.
741. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
timeline for the availability of meters throughout the Territory.
742. The DWS stated that currently meters are not supplied. She stated that
currently the department is utilising the services Clement Donovan (Bone
Page 197 of 260
Crusher) to repair meters. The DWS stated there is a fixed rate plan rate with
customers which is an agreement between the department and customers. The
DWS also stated that the Clarence Thomas Agency has been supplying meters.
The DWS further stated that the Department is focused of tendering process of
the Smart Meters and thereafter would report.
743. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the loss of
revenue due to the issues with meters.
744. The DWS stated that revenue has been lost because customers are free to do as
they please with water.
745. The Ag.PSMCW stated that the funding for the meters are included in the
2019 Budget Estimates for the Ministry. The Ag.PSMCW stated that
quotations were received from the requisite companies and seek permission to
shortlist and purchase. The Ag.PSMCW stated the department will be
implementing Ultrasonic Meters that would be read by smart device that
would be accompanied by a utility system. The Ag.PSMCW stated that within
the next three (3) to four (4) months the meters would be on hand.
746. The Member for the Third District inquired about the Baugher‟s Bay Plant to
which the DWS informed that it has not been functional due to damages to
appliance and equipment that were damaged during the passage of Hurricane
and Maria.
747. The Member for the Third District inquired about the Greenland Pump that
supplies water to the Balsalm Ghut reservoir to which the DWS answered no
and stated that the Sabbath Bay reservoir supplies Balsalm Ghut reservoir.
Page 198 of 260
748. The Member for the Third District asked the DWS if she was aware that the
sole purpose of the Baugher‟s Bay Plant is to supply water to the eastern side
of the island to which she answered yes.
749. The Member for the Third District stated that because the Baugher‟s Bay Plant
is not functional the Western side of the Island is being rationed to which she
answered yes.
750. The Member for the Third District informed that 3.5 million was approved by
cabinet in September, 2018 to remedy the water woes in the Third District. He
stated that water is commodity that is considered a human right and persons in
his district only get water for two hours daily and it urgently need to be
rectified.
751. The Ag.PSMCW the ministry acquired the services of a consultant and a team
to assist in assessing the best way to get more water across the ridge to the
Hannah Hill reservoir which is an issue towards addressing the Sea Cows Bay
water woes and offered further details about the consultancy.
752. The Member for the Third District seeked clarification on the mentioned 3.5
million, however due to time constraints finance was instructed to provide
information at a later date.
753. The Member for the Third District asked if the Fort Hill Reservoir is supplying
water to Duff Bottom and Slaney to which the Engineer answered yes.
754. The Member for the Third District asked why Slaney and Duff Bottom is
unable to receive water 24/7.
755. The Member for the Third District asked if the valve at Duff Bottom is being
shut off periodically to which the engineer answered yes.
Page 199 of 260
756. The Engineer stated that there used to be a desalination plant at the High
School that was being supplied by several wells, however the plant was
abandoned. He stated that a pump was installed that is being supplied from
Hannah Hill additional water is being used from Fort Hill to be pumped to
Long Bush Reservoir and as a result the water going to the western side of the
Island is being decreased. He further stated that during the day the water is
taken to the well in Sea Cow‟s Bay from Fort Hill.
757. The Member for the Third District asked if there is a water shortage in the
Territory to which the Engineer answered no and stated that the issue is the
distribution of the water in the pipeline. The Engineer stated that two pumps at
Slaney were damaged during the hurricane.
758. The Engineer stated that the replacement of the pump would be a priority.
759. The Member for the Third District inquired about the Bird Point Sewerage
Treatment Plant.
760. The Ag.PSMCW stated the Bird Point Sewerage Treatment Plant was severely
damaged and a technical assessment was conducted by Bi Water to develop a
scope of work to be repaired in the first quarter 2018.
761. The Member for the Third District asked what resulted from the assessment
the Ag.PSMCW stated that it is being tendered.
762. The Member for the Third District asked who are the beneficial owners of the
Water Plant in Paraquita Bay to which the acting Ag.PSMCW answered Seven
Seas.
763. The Member for the Third District requested that the names of the beneficial
owners and the Sales and Purchase Agreement to be submitted to which the
Ag.PSMCW agreed.
Page 200 of 260
764. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about the status of the
East End Long Look Sewerage Project, Public Bathroom in Long Look Clinic
and water running from the Stickette to Dove Love.
765. The DWS stated that an application was made by Water and Sewerage as the
concrete road that is adjacent to the clinic is a private road and approval would
have to be granted to dig up the road as well as the resources have it
completed. The DWS stated that the Stickette situation is long outstanding and
the Environmental Health should be involved in the resolve the situation.
766. The Ag.PSMCW stated that the draft designs have been received from the
Technical Consultants as well as the draft tender documents as it related to the
East End Long Look Sewerage Project.
767. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
asked if the pump at the roundabout is functional to which the Ag. PSMCW
answered yes.
768. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 201 of 260
HEAD 2761 MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSING
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (PSTWU)
Mrs. Bethsaida Smith-Hanley Acting Commissioner, Department of Motor Vehicle
(Ag.CDMV)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Office, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities
769. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
770. The Member for the Third District suggested that the PV plates be discarded to
which the Ag.CDMV agreed.
771. The Member for the Third District asked how many licensed vehicles are in
the Territory to which the Ag.CDMV responded over 17,000.
772. The Member for the Third District inquired about the struggles faced by the
department.
773. The Member for the Third District inquired about the method for identifying
abandoned vehicles.
Page 202 of 260
774. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities stated vehicles can be
checked individually.
775. The Member for the Third District stated that there is a provision in the law
that charges a fee for abandoned vehicles and inquired if it is being exercised.
776. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities stated that the
Department of Waste Management is responsible for the charge.
777. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 203 of 260
HEAD 2762 PUBLIC WORKS
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (PSTWU)
Mr. Navarro Donovan Acting Director, Public Works Department (Ag.DPWD)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Office, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works
and Utilities
778. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
779. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about the Management of the Public Works
Department in Virgin Gorda and Anegada as a result of complaints. He then
asked what plans are in place to reform the department to make it more
effective.
780. The Ag. Director stated that currently the department is being restructured. He
stated that previously there were eighteen (18) employees and currently there
are only nine (9) employees on Virgin Gorda and Anegada. The Ag. PS stated
that hopefully the department will be restored to its‟ previous staffing.
Page 204 of 260
781. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District asked for a timeline so he can report to his constituents. The
Ag. PS stated it will be phased throughout the year.
782. The Member for the Second District asked how long the Ag.Director has been
acting in his post to which he responded June, 2018.
783. The Member for the Second District stated that he continues to work with the
team at Public Works and despite shortfalls in certain areas, the responsiveness
and willingness to alleviate issues in the Second District is commended and
greatly appreciated.
784. The Member for the Second District inquired about Road Works Projects in
the Second District, specifically the road in dog hole leading from the Ferry
Dock behind the school to Foxy‟s referred to as the (back road) on Jost Van
Dyke, the overlaying of Brewers Bay Road and road works to be completed in
Mayaba and Cane Garden Bay.
785. The Ag. PS stated that the design for the road works in Jost Van Dyke was
completed by an outside engineer, once included in the budget by the Ministry
the works should be completed. He stated that the road works in Brewers bay,
Mayaba and Cane Garden Bay would also be completed as currently there is a
contract with the local contractors for asphalt and a schedule to repair roads
territory wide. He stated that works will commence in the next month.
786. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
spoke about concerns as is relates to capacity building.
787. The Ag. Director stated that the Ministry along with Public Works have been
actively undergoing capacity building exercises which identifies the skills gaps
and skill needed to make the department more proactive instead of just being
Page 205 of 260
reactive. The Ag. Director stated that vacant positions would be advertised. He
further stated that the department will be developing maintenance programmes
and ensured that throughout the year improvements will be made as is relates
to capacity building and technical support.
788. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
stated that he hope all projects for districts are conducted and stated that it is
reliant on the department having the capacity to conduct its duties and stated
he is in full support of such efforts.
789. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
stated that when works are conducted by other department such as Water and
Sewerage Department and Utility Companies it takes some time before the
roads are patched and suggested that the care of the roads should be included
in contracts.
790. The Ag. Director stated that such observation is factual however the asphalt
plant has been out of commission therefore there was no availability of asphalt
to repair roads.
791. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked for a status update on the
road in Paraquita Bay, the road leading to Cedo Lettsome‟s building that is
becoming impassable and further up the hill the undermining road approaching
Solomon Pickering‟s residence in Long Look and Fat Hog‟s Bay on the main
road.
792. The Ag.PS stated that in the interim the road in Paraquita Bay would be
passable as there are pending works by the Water and Sewerage Department to
address the Sewerage Infrastructure therefore no permanent fixes can be done.
Page 206 of 260
793. The Ag. Director stated that repairs were done to the section of the Road in Fat
Hog‟s Bay and traffic can continue once Water and Sewerage complete works.
He stated that the roads in Long Look would be reviewed and works will be
forwarded to the Ministry to have them completed.
794. The Member for the Third District thanked the Public Works Department for
the work completed in Sea Cows Bay. He referred to the Budget Address and
stated that he hope all districts would be given an equal amount of money as
mentioned. He stated that the residents of the Third District suffered under the
last administration and he anticipates having access to the money he will be
able to fulfil the needs of his people.
795. The Ag. Director stated that the aim is to deliver projects to the Ministry.
796. Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member stated the hurricane season is upon us
and sought information on the plans for Ghuts and suggested that they be
cleared regularly as they gather a lot of debris.
797. The Ag. Director stated that the maintenance programme is being reviewed
and upgraded. He stated that officers are assigned to monitor and log the ghuts
throughout the Territory and stated that the current database needs to be
updated.
798. The Member for the Third District inquired about Bush Cutting and
Landscaping Projects for districts.
799. The Ag. Director stated Bush Cutting is included in maintenance programmes
and was previously a part of the Retirees Programme, however, the budget was
reduced significantly.
Page 207 of 260
800. The Member for the Third District asked what is the plan moving forward and
if it will be reinstated. The Ag. Director stated he will do his best with what is
available and it will be revisited.
801. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District stated that since his inception he has been working with the Ag.
Director and thanked him for going above and beyond.
802. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District stated
it is a transitional budget and will try his best to assist the people of the Virgin
Islands and commended him for his work.
803. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 208 of 260
HEAD 2763 TELEPHONE SERVICES MANAGEMENT UNIT
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.PSTWU)
Mr. Reynell Turnbull Manager, Telephone Services Management Unit
(MTSMU)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Office, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works
and Utilities
804. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
805. The MTSMU stated that his role is to manage the telecommunication
infrastructure and services for BVI Government.
806. The Member for the Second District asked if the department was satisfied
with the money allocated.
807. The MTSMU stated the money is sufficient however is dissatisfied with staff
accommodations. The MTSMU stated that since hurricane Irma the vehicles
were damaged and as a result staff is required to use their personal vehicle to
respond to service calls to ensure that government business is completed.
Page 209 of 260
808. The Member for the Second District stated that the Minister and the Ministry
would support the department.
809. The Ag.PS stated that the Ministry work diligently to ensure the employees
are comfortable. He stated that the fleet at the Facilities Management Unit
would be increase and the unit would have a vehicle assigned to the unit.
810. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District stated
it is a transitional budget and would accommodate the department as best as
possible.
811. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 210 of 260
BVI ELECTRICITY
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (AgPSTWU)
Ms. Simone Penn Acting Deputy Director, British Virgin Islands
Electricity Corporation (Ag.DDBVIEC)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Office, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation Works
and Utilities
812. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
813. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about street lights as
there are very dark areas throughout the district.
814. The Ag.DDBVIEC stated that the purchase of street lights is included in the
2019 budget estimates.
815. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
asked who is responsible for the two flood lights in Road Town by the Port
Authority and asked if they were ordered to be replaced to which the
Ag.PSMTWU yes.
Page 211 of 260
816. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District inquired about future plans to bury
cable.
817. The Ag.DDBVIEC stated that they are in the process of developing a scope of
works for burying the remainder of the transmission line that goes from Sleepy
Hill to Hodge‟s Creek underground.
818. The Minister for Transporation, Works and Utilities asked if three hundred
thousand dollars is sufficient for street light for the entire Territory to which
the Ag.PSMTWU responded yes.
819. The Member for the Second District recognised and acknowledged the
Ag.PSMCW for being hard working and diligence. He also recognized and
congratulated the Ag.DDBVIEC for her leadership role.
820. The Member for the Second District suggested reflective crosswalk lights for
safety purposes to which the Ag. PSMCW agreed and stated it would be a
priority.
821. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 212 of 260
TAXI AND LIVERY COMMISSION
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.PSTWU)
Mr. Dameon Percival Director, Taxi and Livery Commission
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Office, Ministry of Transportation
Works and Utilities (FPOTWU)
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation Works
and Utilities
822. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record. The Chairman
was asked if the panel wished to give a brief presentation.
823. The Director stated that Taxi and Livery Commission was introduced to
regulate transportation for the industry. He stated that the Commission was
faced with rough patches and required attention. He stated that for three and a
half years of the six years he has been the Director he had to handle both the
Inspector and Administrative Role. He stated that there have been
improvement over the past six (6) months as there are currently four (4)
inspectors, once of whom assist the sister islands. The Director stated that
there is an increase in illegal taxing. He elaborated on the issues and stated it
has been difficult to get the police to intervene. He stated that the Taxi Drivers
are highly commended when surveys are conducted.
Page 213 of 260
824. The Chairman asked for a report to be submitted.
825. The Ag. PSMTWU stated it is important for the Taxi and Livery Commission
to function properly the Cruise Industry is dependent on its success. He stated
that an addition two hundred and forty nine thousand seven hundred dollars
would be needed to function throughout the year.
826. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 214 of 260
CONTRIBUTIONS TO STATUTORY BOARDS
HEAD 2109 DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mr. Alcedo Fahie Interim Acting Director, Financial Investigation Agency
(Interim Ag.DFIA)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office (DSDGO)
Mr. Jeremy Vanterpool Chief Operating Officer, Financial Investigation Agency
(COO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(FPODGO)
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO FINANCIAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY
827. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
828. The Interim Ag.DFIA made a comprehensive presentation before the
Committee and highlighted the following:
The Agency was created on 1st April, 2004;
The Agency is a Statutory Body governed by a Board which comprises of:
The Deputy Governor (Chairman;
The Attorney General (Deputy Chairman);
The Financial Secretary;
The Commissioner of Police;
The Commissioner of Customs; and
The Managing Director, Financial Services Commission.
The Agency is guided by a Steering Committee which comprises of:
Page 215 of 260
The Attorney General (Chairman)
The Managing Director, Financial Services Commission
The Director, Financial Investigation Agency
The Agency is primarily funded by Government Subventions;
The Agency receives special funding from the Financial Services Commission
on a quarterly basis;
In 2018, the Agency received and processed 615 suspicious activities and
suspicious transactions reports compared to 648 in 2017;
In 2018, the Agency received and processed 630 requests for information from
other FIU‟s and Law Enforcement Agencies compared to 568 in 2018;
The Agency requires additional personnel due to workload as follows:
one Intelligence Officer;
two Administrative Assistants;
one Senior Analyst; and
one Senior Investigating Officer.
829. After a question being posed in reference to the Competent Authority of the
Beneficial Ownership Secure Search System (BOSS), the Committee was
informed by the Interim Ag.DFIA that the responsibilities of the BOSS System
had been passed on to the Financial Investigation Agency. The Interim
Ag.DFIA further reported that if the International Tax Authority (ITA)
required access to the BOSS System they would have to obtain permission
from the FIA.
Page 216 of 260
830. The remaining discussions surrounded the issue of Suspicious Transactions
Reports (STR‟s). The Interim Ag.DFIA explained that prior to hurricane Irma
there was a steady increase of suspicious transactions reports being reported to
the Agency.
831. A question was posed to the Interim Ag.DFIA regarding the amount of
moneys that is received from the Financial Services Commission towards the
budget. The Interim Ag.DFIA responded that the Agency received $500,000
from the Financial Services Commission. In 2018, they received an additional
$250,000.
832. There was a question posed to the Interim Ag.DFIA regarding his tenure as
Interim Ag. Director and that of the present holder of the post. The Interim
Ag.DFIA responded that in August, 2017, the Director proceeded on study
leave for a period of three (3) years and he has been appointed acting Interim
Director from then to present. The present holder of the post was appointed in
2008.
833. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 217 of 260
HEAD 2220 PREMIER’S OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mrs. Sharon Flax-Brutus Director, British Virgin Islands, Tourist Board
(DBVITB)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
(FPOPO)
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO BVI TOURIST BOARD
834. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
835. The DBVITB did not make a presentation to the Committee; however, she
requested a budget for $14.2 million an increase from $10.5 million.
836. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Membergave her support for
the increase in the budget to the Tourist Board.
837. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired how long has the budget of the Tourist Board been
at $10.5 million.
838. The DBVITB responded that the budget had been $10.5 million since her
appointment to the post of Director of Tourism six (6) years ago.
839. The Member for the Second District also gave his support for the increase in
budget to the Tourist Board.
Page 218 of 260
840. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member made a statement regarding
seeing more beautification going on in the Virgin Islands and asked what
measures are in place to keep the Virgin Islands clean and beautiful.
841. The DBVITB stated that the Tourist Board actively works with the different
Ministries. They have a good working relationship with the Ministry of Health
especially the Department of Waste Management. They also work alongside
private entities in the BVI so they expect to continue that. She urged all the
districts and communities to do their part in keeping the BVI Clean. There is a
beautification committee in Road Town and the Tourist Board has a member
of staff on that committee.
842. The Deputy Speaker and Territorial Member made mention of the garbage
bins throughout the Territory and stated that a barrier needs to be created to
hide the garbage as it is unsightly and a traffic hazard.
843. The DBVITB stated that the Tourist Board would be very diligent as it relates
to working with the Department of Waste Management. She is aware that they
are some recycling plans in place and the department would work as diligently
as they could because we are selling a product.
844. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District gave his
support for the Tourist Board to receive the additional funding. He noted that
his district has been doing a lot of work as they have plans for Sports Tourism,
Heritage Tourism among other things. He inquired how the Tourist Board
would be utilising the additional funds to help develop and promote the
product and ensure that the wealth shows throughout the Virgin Islands.
845. The DBVITB responded that they would be allocating moneys throughout all
of the districts. As it relates to the Eighth district and the LoP‟s references to
Page 219 of 260
Sports, Heritage and Cruise Tourism the Tourist Board had been and will
continue to work with Mr. Potter as it relates to the Cruise Tourism and getting
additional tours to go through the Eighth district. There are some additional
enhancements in terms of signage, road works among other things. As it
relates to Sports Tourism, the department has been doing quite a bit of work in
terms of looking for ways that they can promote Sports Tourism by bringing in
tournaments from different areas. The DBVITB further stated that the
department do need to work harder on that because it is not just about the
facility itself, the infrastructure in terms of roads, hotels, taxis, and support
system needs to be in place. The Tourist Board also plan to use the additional
monies in terms of marketing and advertising.
846. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District stated that
Trellis Bay is the gateway to access other islands (Oil Nut Bay, Scrub Island
etc) and noted that there have been discussions about building a proper visitors
terminal. He inquired about the plans for developing the Trellis Bay area.
847. The DBVITB stated that there is a plan in place to put the first phase of the
visitor information centre at Trellis Bay. The funding was received at the end
of December last year. They are also hopeful that the corresponding Ministry
would move towards having Trellis Bay made an official port so that the
requisite attention could be paid to that area.
848. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District stated that
he would appreciate if the Junior Minister for Tourism and him could work
closely on that project in his district to make sure that they are all on the same
page.
849. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 220 of 260
HEAD 2220 PREMIER’S OFFICE
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mr. Denniston Fraser Managing Director BVI Airports Authority
Limited (MDBVIAA)
Coy Levons Director of Operations, BVI Airports Authority
(DOO)
Mrs. Sharifa Smith Director of Finance, BVI Airports Authority
Limited (DOF)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
(FPOPO)
SUBHEAD 531000 BVI AIRPORTS AUTHORITY LIMITED
850. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
851. The MDBVIAA informed the Committee that the Virgin Gorda runway had
never been paved for over 40 years. He received a quotation for overlaying
the surface, which is an approximate value of $2.6 million to 2.8 million. He
stated that the cost has been reduced to approximately $1 million due to the
fact that they have the equipment on Beef Island so the Government will not
incur the mobilisation cost.
852. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District asked what the timeframe in which they had to commence
work.
Page 221 of 260
853. The MDBVIAA stated that the runway at Beef Island is expected to be
completed by end of April, 2019 to first week in May, 2019. There will be
some after works, which will be finalised by late May to early June. The
company has another job pending but they would consider Virgin Gorda if
they were advised within the next two to three weeks latest.
854. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration inquired if there
was any consideration given to extend the Anegada Airport.
855. The MDBVIAA stated the department had not sorted approval or a quote for
the extension of the Anegada Airport.
856. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
status on the improvements to the Terminal Building on Anegada and Virgin
Gorda.
857. The DOO stated that with regards to the Anegada and Virgin Gorda
Terminals, minor works were done to bring them up to a minimal standard.
However, the situation is that they have not received the insurance payout.
Due to the lack of funding, the department was unable to do any further works
on the buildings.
858. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member stated that Rosewood
had committed approximately $100,000 for improvements to the Virgin Gorda
Terminal and inquired what those funds would be used for.
859. The DOO stated that if they had a $100,000, it would be used for fixing the air
condition, the parking lot, infrastructure work, and a proper roof for the
building.
860. The Speaker inquired about ASSI.
Page 222 of 260
861. The MDBVIAA stated that the subject of ASSI falls under the purview of the
Ministry of Communications and Works.
862. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Standing Finance Committee.
Page 223 of 260
HEAD 2436 MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LABOUR AND
IMMIGRATION
Present:
Mr. Ronald Smith Berkeley Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (PSNRLI)
Ms. Lynda Varlack Director of National Parks Trust, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
(DNPTMNRLI)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (DPSNRLI)
Ms. Louann Hodge Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration (Ag.
DPSNRLI)
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO NATIONAL PARKS TRUST
863. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record, to which they
complied.
864. The Ag. Director of National Parks Trust (DNPT) gave a brief presentation
and stated the National Parks Trust was established as a statutory body under
the umbrella of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour in the
Government of the Virgin Islands in 196, is tasked with a broad portfolio of
conservation and protection services that speak to: species restoration, marine
conservation, reforestation, historical preservation, biodiversity research and
environmental engagement/education.
865. The AgDNPT stated that currently, it operated with a staff of less than thirty to
manage twenty terrestrial parks and protected areas and one marine park.
Page 224 of 260
866. The AgDNPT stated the critical work priorities of 2019.
867. The AgDNPT stated that the trust was invited to purchase Toad Hall (a 5 acre
property) in the immediate vicinity of the Baths, National Park $5.5 million
dollars by the owner Mr. Stephen Green. The AgDNPT also stated that the
owner is willing to allow the Trust to purchase the property for an initial down
payment of at least $1m and then undertake to pay the balance in equal
installments within a 2-year period. The AgDNPT further stated that the trust
does not have the funds to purchase the property and requires seed money. The
AgDNPT requested one million dollars that could be used to serve as a down-
payment necessary to initiate the transaction. The AgDNPT concluded by
stating that through anticipated improvements in fiscal performance, the Trust
would be able to generate the revenue needed to meet the obligation for paying
off the balance to complete the purchase, and then undertake the development
of the site into a full-fledged business operation.
868. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
inquired the status of Hans Creek National Park.
869. The AgDNPT stated that she know the marine portion (and perhaps coastline)
of Hans Creek is a legally declared Fisheries Protected Area per the 1997
Fisheries Act. However, I would need to double-check the contents of the
Trust's Parks & Protected Areas System Management Plan with respect to
Hans Creek as potential area for conservation by designation as a national
park.
870. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked if there a plans to
incorporate Han Creek into the protected status of Long Bay, Beef Island.
Page 225 of 260
871. The AgDNPT stated that to her knowledge, Hans Creek has not been
identified as a distinct area to be linked directly or indirectly with ongoing
effort for the declaration and management of Beef Island's Long Bay Beach as
a national park. She said that the Trust can look into what the
characteristics/features of Hans Creek that naturally lend themselves as
opportune linkage to Long Bay Beach, Beef Island for preservation and eco-
tours, recreation, education, local scientific research, citizen science, etc.
872. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District stated that Hans Creek is a pristine
ecological wonder, and a fantastic area for eco-tourism and natural recreation.
He said please see how it could be preserved and protected as a national park.
873. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member stated that over a
year ago the Director of Tourist Board and the now Junior Minister for
Tourism met with a gentleman who own a sizable piece of land adjacent to the
Baths. She inquired about the status of the negotiation stage on the piece of
land.
874. The Permanent Secretary PSNRLI stated that the Ministry has met with the
lawyer who is representing the Owner of the property. The owner has quoted
the value of the property to be $5.5 million. Currently, an appraisal was being
sought to establish the true value of the property. Once appraisal is received an
information paper would be done to take to Cabinet to get an agreement in
order to have a MOU signed to take the property off the market. Discussions
to find the moneys to would be the next step.
875. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District thank
the Permanent Secretary and his team for appearing before the Committee.
Page 226 of 260
HEAD 2543 EDUCATION POLICY, PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (PSECYAFA)
Mr. Stephen Payne Executive Director, Recreational Trust
Mrs. Connie George Chief Education Officer, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (CEO)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary, Projects Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(AsstSec)
Mrs. Jovita Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture
(FPOEC)
Ms. Koreen George Accounts Supervisor, Ministry of Education, Culture,
Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture (AcctSup)
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO RECREATION TRUST
876. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District inquired about Head 3250413 that there was $200,000 for
Anegada Sporting Facilities for 2020 and under Head 42550500 Recreational
Facilities Restoration; he asked if they were two (2) separate entities. There
was no response to this. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and
Immigration and Member for the Ninth District stated that there needs to be
recreational facilities on Anegada and there was a young man who was taking
an initiative to raise monies to restore the facilities there. He further asked if
Members could make this a reality and have it as a high priority.
Page 227 of 260
877. The Member for the Third District inquired about the existence of the Board.
The Executive Director advised that the Board had expired. The PSMEC
advised that the Ministry was aware that the Boards had expired just before the
2017 hurricanes and the Minister at the time advised not to reinstate that Board
given that there were no recreational facilities to be managed because they
were destroyed during the hurricanes as well as there were no funding to
refurbish the facilities. The Member for the Third District stated that persons
responsible for putting on the light bulbs at the basketball court promised to do
it, but did not do it. He further stated that the same thing was for the softball
field. The Executive Director advised that none of the requests the Member
mentioned came through the Trust. He further described who was responsible
for the Trust and further stated that one of the bulbs needed to light the AO
Shirley Grounds would be 1350 Watts, if twelve (12) were placed on the
grounds, which would equal almost a thousand dollars an hour per pole. He
advised that they did not have the funds to manage that cost.
878. The Member for the Sixth District informed that she had submitted estimates
for an open court until they can get something similar for Virgin Gorda in
order that the youths can have something to utilize in the interim.
879. The Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired if there was
a Master plan for all of the recreational facilities in the Territory. She informed
that we are playing all of our home games in Anguilla and they are collecting
$100,000 from FIFA; 2-3 games have been played there since the season
started. She further inquired about how the electricity bills were paid as she
saw that the lights are left on sometimes all night. The Executive Director
advised that there used to be some form of Security. However, since he had
been on board they have had to replace timers on the lights and encountered
vandalism which has resulted in high light bills. Capoons Bay lights were left
on all night because the facilities are not secured. He stated that there is some
Page 228 of 260
form of a plan to rehabilitate the facilities. He noted that the AO Shirley
Grounds Track has already been re-laid, they plan to facilitate soccer on
Virgin Gorda and advised that things were happening.
880. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
inquired of the nine (9) basketball courts that were selected to be restored
through the CDB loan.
881. The ASMEC informed that they were: Anegada, North Sound-Virgin Gorda,
Cane Garden Bay, Sea Cow‟s Bay, Purcell Estate, Greenland, West End, Road
Town (Long Bush), and Jost Van Dyke. She further iterated that Purcell Estate
and Greenland were removed from the list and Capoons Bay and Carrot Bay
were added on the list. The Premier asked why the latter two were added in as
they do not need any more than $100,000 to restore. The ASMEC advised that
Purcell Estate and Greenland were taken out because they were able to restore
them with local funding. The Member for the Second District asked about the
assessment for the Diamond Estate basketball court. The ASMEC advised that
there was no assessment done for Diamond Estate and Baugher‟s Bay courts.
The ASMEC advised that there were minor works done on the Sea Cow‟s Bay
basketball court. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the
First District requested that the basketball courts at Diamond Estate, Baugher‟s
Bay, Anegada, Capoon‟s Bay and Carrot Bay should be removed from the
CDB loan funding as they could be restored through local spending.
Page 229 of 260
HEAD 2543 EDUCATION POLICY, PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION
Present:
Dr. Marcia Potter Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education,
Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports (PSECYAFA)
Mrs. Judith Vanterpool Acting President, H. Lavity Stoutt Community
College (HLSCC)
Mrs. Italia Penn Bursar, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College
(HLSCC)
Mrs. Jovita Mercer-Scatliffe Finance and Planning Officer (FPOECYAFA)
Ms. Lorna Stevens Assistant Secretary (AS)
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO H. LAVITY STOUTT COMMUNITY
COLLEGE
882. The Chairman welcomed the panel and asked that they state their names and
positions for the record.
883. The Acting President stated that she didn‟t have any presentation but can be
asked questions.
884. The Junior Minister for Tourism inquired as to what is the status of the
Culinary Programme at HLSCC and are there any plans to improve the
programme from an Associate to Bachelors Programme.
885. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired as to whether
there any potential donors or sponsors willing to help with the programme.
886. The Acting President stated that presently the Culinary Arts Centre‟s physical
structure is under repairs after the hurricanes Irma and Maria and due to lack
Page 230 of 260
of funds there is a challenge in getting persons to work on the Centre to have
the repairs done.
887. The Acting President stated that the challenges have experienced is getting the
air conditioning repaired for the kitchen and they have had to use the
Technical School in Baughers Bay for some of the classes.
888. The Acting President stated that the HLSCC has outdone their time at the
Technical School and need to get back in the Centre. She further noted that by
the end of this month the air conditioning workers agreed to have the Centre
ready.
889. The Acting President stated that they are thinking about it and continue to
seek articulations with institutions that will blend with what we are doing in
the Virgin Islands.
890. The Acting President stated that they are actively seeking donors and are in
quite a few discussions.
891. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District stated that 2020 will mark 25 years since the death of H.
Lavity Stoutt which the college is named and inquired as to the progress of the
statue or bust being made of H. Lavity Stoutt in honour of him at the H.Lavity
Stoutt College. He also inquired as to what is the significance of the MOU
recently signed between the HLSCC College and the University of the Virgin
Islands as it relates to the implications on education.
Page 231 of 260
892. The Acting President stated that the College will be celebrating its 30 years
Anniversary next year and will be incorporating the celebration in honor of the
death of the late H. Lavity Stoutt 25 years later.
893. The Acting President stated that the college is currently researching the cost of
the bust.
894. The Acting President stated that the college with the MOU has been able to
award our students the ability to attend the University of Virgin Islands at a
reduced rate now of $17,000.00 per semester instead of $23,000.00 per
semester. She further stated that there is now the ability for instructor
exchange.
895. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired as to whether or not the college is seriously financially challenged
and whether or not the college is well on its way towards maintain its
accreditation.
896. The Acting President stated that the college has been putting off developments
because there are no finances to support the growth of the college. The college
cafeteria has been closed due to repairs and the DAI to the RDA has been
gracious to assist with Sixty-one Thousand Dollars in kind by providing
materials for classroom workshop to teach construction. The college with their
help has been able to reinstate the fire simulator to help with the Marine
Studies and air condition is now being replaced via recovery moneys. The
Marine Centre is still at severe need of painting and upkeep.
Page 232 of 260
897. The Acting President stated that the challenge has been without funding the
programmes can‟t grow and the buildings can‟t be maintained and are at a
standstill.
898. The Acting President stated the HLSCC is well on its way and will do what
they can do, however financial stability is one area that the Commission
focuses on and if we do not have any finances we are casting great doubt on
them that we will be surviving. She further stated that it is one of the areas that
she pleads attention.
899. The Member for the Third District inquired as to whether or not the HHLSCC
is accredited.
900. The Acting President stated the HLSCC is accredited and that the college is up
for reaffirmation this same time in 2020.
901. The Premier and Member for the First District inquired as to when did the
RDA approach the college with assistance.
902. The Acting President stated that the DAI under the FCO approached the
HLSCC and promised to help in kind. The RDA recently promised to assist
the HLSCC at a general meeting at the Department of Youth Affairs and
Sports.
903. The PSMECAFYAS stated that the RDA asked the Ministry to provide a list
of things that they can work along with the HLSCC to provide assistance.
904. The Premier and Member for the First District inquired as to how much
moneys received were received from the Government in last year‟s budget.
Page 233 of 260
905. The Bursar stated that the Eight Million Dollars as stated was received from
the Government for last year‟s budget.
906. The Bursar stated that the problem is not what the HLSCC is getting for
subvention but if the subvention can fund the HLSCC based on their
expenditures keeping in mind that in 2013 they were getting Eleven Million
Dollars and being reimbursed for the tuition assistance. Today the HLSCC is
only getting Eight Million Dollars with no tuition reimbursement and have to
pay for the tuition assistance out of the subvention.
907. The Premier and Member for the First District questioned if the college is in a
deficit, has been running a loss every year since 2013 and is on life support for
which the Acting President answered in the affirmative.
908. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked
that the Bursar speak to the importance of the financial stability of the
accreditation process of the HLSCC.
909. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
stated that when he was a part of HLSCC Board consideration for
accreditation was based on proving that the college could be financially sound
and should be taken seriously.
910. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
encouraged the Members to do whatever possible to ensure that the college
does not lose its accreditation that was fought for and gained.
Page 234 of 260
911. The Members for the Second District inquired as to who qualified for the free
tuition.
912. The Bursar stated that BVI Islanders, Belongers and persons in the country for
more than seven years are among the persons who qualified for the tuition
assistance.
913. The Member for the Second District stated that based on his understanding the
HLSCC free tuition policy was based on BVI Islanders and Belonger who
wanted to further their education and become contributing citizens to the
development of the country.
914. The Member for the Second District inquired as to why the cafeteria and book
store and all the other avenues that would assist to help balance the finances of
the HLSCC have ceased.
915. The Acting President stated that the cafeteria has had many mishaps and the
standard of production has not been forthcoming. The Building of the cafeteria
is in much disarray to have the students eat there and is at a stage where the
students bring their own sandwiches and are now the entrepreneurs at the
college.
916. The Acting President stated that the book store is under evaluation and there
are many books outdated. They are much discussions if there will be a full
fledge bookstore with the incoming e-books or a campus store with a few hard
cover books for students to reference in the learning centre.
917. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that as a former member of the accreditation committee at the HLSCC,
Page 235 of 260
if finance is an obstacle to discussions made by the HLSCC the Commission
would look at it negatively and it is very serious in the eyes of the
Commission.
918. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that based on the college the tuition assistance programme information
online applicants must be the holder of a British Passport issued by the Virgin
Islands, BVI Belonger card, BVI Passport with the BVI as place of birth and a
Certificate of Naturalisation.
919. The Member for the Third asked that the information on the criteria for free
tuition be forwarded to the Committee.
920. The Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development and Territorial
Member encouraged the Premier and Members to do what is possible to assist
the college.
921. The Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities and Member for the Fifth
District inquired about data on the number of students successful at the
college.
922. The Premier and Member for the First District stated that it is clear that the
accreditation at the HLSCC is at jeopardy and says that the information
provided is timely. The Premier and Member for the First District also stated
that the college is in need of a comprehensive business model review and plan.
The Acting President of HLSCC responded in the affirmative.
Page 236 of 260
923. The Premier and Member for the First District the Government thanked the
acting President for the work done so far at the HLSCC and pledged to assist
in turning the HLSCC around.
Page 237 of 260
HEAD 2652 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL
DEVELOPMENT
Present:
Ms. Petrona Davies Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (PSHDS)
Mr. Ronald Georges Chief Executive Officer, British Virgin Islands Health
Services Authority (CEOBVIHSA)
Ms. Natalie Fahie-Smith Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSH)
Ms. Tasha Bertie Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (FPOHSD)
Dr. Irad Potter Chief Medical Officer (FPOPO)
Mr. Duane Fraites Assistant Project Manager
SUBHEAD 551000 GRANT TO BVI HEALTH SERVICES AUTHORITY
924. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
925. The CEOBVIHSA stated that the appointments, especially those at an
executive level have to be approved by Cabinet. He stated there we are in
discussions with the new Health Minister and agreements were made before
implemented.
926. The PSHSD stated that all Top Management Positions have to go through
Cabinet, there were recommendation made, the papers would be presented and
Cabinet will then make a decision on appointments.
Page 238 of 260
927. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for
the Ninth District mentioned an advertisement about Medical Services on
Anegada. He stated that medical services will be discontinued on Mondays
and service would be given half day Tuesday and Thursday, from 9:30 - 12:30.
928. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member asked what state of the art
evacuation mechanisms will be available to residents as it is very
disheartening the way persons have to be transported when they are ill.
929. The CEOBVIHSA stated that Medical Evacuation has been a vexing issue for
quite some time. He stated there were moves in the past for Helipads but
Helipads without Helicopter is inadequate.
930. The PSHSD suggested an Ambulance Boat, a purpose built vessel which
would be in the region of four hundred thousand dollars.
931. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
requested the information for the Ambulance Boat to which the PSHSD
affirmed.
932. Junior Minister for Tourism and Territorial Member inquired about the
functionality and condition of the generator for the Iris O‟Neal Clinic.
933. The CEOBVIHSA stated that the generator would be repaired within the new
two weeks.
934. The Member for the Sixth District suggested that there be a full time doctor
and nurses at Long Look Clinic.
935. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District asked for a status on Long Look
Clinic and the factors that led to it being closed.
Page 239 of 260
936. The CEOBVIHSA stated that there were significant damages to the Clinic,
however most of the repairs were conducted and should be functional in the
next month.
937. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
stated the BVIHSA is in the process of being accredited. September 2019 is
the next review. It is a very important step in the life of the BVIHSA which as
a staff of six hundred and twenty (620) throughout the Virgin Islands. He
stated that in the interim will seek to build capacity. He stated in efforts to be
informative to the public, an upgrade would be given shortly.
938. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
informed that it is a transitional budget however an additional 2.5 million
forms part of the budget estimates for the Information System that will aid in
the accreditation was included in the budget.
939. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 240 of 260
HEAD 2652 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL
DEVELOPMENT
Present:
Ms. Petrona Davies Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (PSHDS)
Ms. Antoinette Skelton Director, Social Security Board (DSSB)
Mr. Ian Smith Chairman, Social Security Board
Ms. Jeanette Boynes Deputy Director, Social Security Board
Ms. Michelle Georges Chief Operations Officer, Social Security Board
Dr. Irad Potter Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (CMO)
Ms. Natalie Fahie-Smith Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSH)
Ms. Tasha Bertie Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (FPOHSD)
Mr. Duane Fraites Assistant Project Manager
HEAD 26554173 GRANT TO NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE
940. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record. The Chairman
informed the panel that due to time constraints they should circulate their
presentations.
941. The Director apologised for the absence of Mr. Roy Barry who was away on
official travel duty to Jamaica.
Page 241 of 260
942. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District asked
how NHI acquires their money.
943. The Director stated they acquire money from two sources, Government and
the Contributors. The money that comes from government is sent to the NHI.
944. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District asked
how much money government contributes to NHI which the Director
answered forty two million dollars yearly (42,000,000.00).
945. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District asked
how much is collected from the contributors.
946. The Director stated for the year ending 3s1st December, 2018 a total of
seventy seven million two hundred and thirty one dollars (77,231,000.00) was
collected, therefore, thirty five millions two hundred and thirty one thousand
dollars (35,231,000.00) was collected from the contributors.
947. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District asked
how much was paid out to which the Director stated seventy nine million,
seven hundred and forty seven thousand eight hundred and ten dollars
(79,747,810.00) which is a deficit of two million five hundred and sixteen
thousand two hundred and ninety three (2,516,293.00).
948. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District asked
to whom is the money owed.
949. The Director stated that the moneys are owed to the National Health Insurance
System and it is outstanding.
Page 242 of 260
950. The Premier and Minister for Finance and Member for the First District
inquired about the eleven million five hundred thousand dollars
(11,500.000.00) startup cost for National Health Insurance which led to
several discussions being ensued.
951. The Director in efforts to clarify stated that when National Health Insurance
was envisioned, it was recommended by the committee that contributions
should be collected to build up the fund prior to paying benefits. However, the
government of the day denied as persons who have to pay their private
insurance would also have to pay into the National Health Insurance. The
report from the HEU (Health Economic Unit), the consultant on the
programme, stated it would take eleven million five hundred thousand dollars
(11,500.000.00) to start up the system. The Director stated that Ministry of
Finance promised to provide five million dollars (5,000,000.00) by December,
2015, however the money was not received. She further stated that to date the
only payments was $2.5 million that was paid February, 2019. The Director
stated that from the inception National Health Insurance was operating from a
deficit.
952. The Member for the Third District stated that he is dissatisfied with the
manner in which money for the British Virgin Islands Health Services
Authority is being channeled through the National Health Insurance. He
suggested that the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority should take
the same route as the Private Sector in terms of being paid for services
rendered. He further stated that the hospital needed to operate effectively and
the only way that can be accomplished is charging for the services.
953. The Chairman stated that a fee for service would have to be a decisions for the
Government, and the decision of the Subvention also came from the previous
government. He stated that the National Health Insurance cannot speak for the
Page 243 of 260
Ministry of BVI Health Services Authority, however NHI ensures that their
clients have the best access to health care services.
954. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District queried the subvention given to
the BVI Health Services Authority prior to NHI. A representative from the
Ministry of Finance stated that the figure in 2013 was twenty three million,
one hundred thousand dollars (23,100,000.00).
955. The Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs and
Sports and Member for the Seventh District queried the contribution that
government makes for employees in addition to the subvention, expenditure
and revenue and requested information on such, as exact figure were no
readily available.
956. The Minister for Health and Social Development thanked the National Health
Insurance and and the Board as they are operating under extreme circumstance
and spoke about bettering the National Health Insurance System.
957. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee and reminded them that this is a transitional
budget.
Page 244 of 260
HEAD 43003103 PUBLIC DEBT
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Alva McCall Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance
(DFS)
Mrs. Michelle Richmond-Phillips Head of the Macro Fiscal Unit, Ministry of
Finance (HMFU)
Ms. Sandra Brewley Financial Analyst, Macro Fiscal Unit, Ministry of
Finance
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
958. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
959. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that there is a presentation to
be made.
960. In her presentation, the HMFU stated that:
The total Public Sector Debt as of December 2018 was $232.69 million. Of the
$232.6M, she noted the Central Government debt was $151.79M and
guaranteed debt was $80.9M.
In the 2019 Budget, the Public Debt is allocated at $181.1 million dollars.
961. The HMFU noted that the figure stated the Budget Book would be lower than
the figure stated above as it speaks to existing debt. She said that the $181.1M
figure includes amounts for new debt.
Page 245 of 260
962. The FS indicated that a copy of the HMFU‟s presentation should have been
emailed to the Clerk.
963. The HMFU continued her presentation and noted that:
With regards to the public debt stated in 2019 budget, the figure was
calculated based on the assumption that the Government‟s acceptance of the
loan guarantee proposed by the UK.
In 2018, there had been a noticeable change in the trend for debt servicing on
the guaranteed debt side. She said that there had been a change from $16.5M
in 2015 to $41.7M in 2016 which represents disbursements under the BVIEC
Social Security Loan. She also referred to:
i. An additional disbursement of $50 million dollars for the BVIPA Loan
ii. A disbursement of $2.1 million in 2018 for another BVIPA loan ($5.8
million). There are two additional disbursements outstanding.
964. A Member of the Committee inquired about what the term DOD referred to.
965. The HMFU stated that DOD stands for disburse outstanding debt.
966. The FS provided an additional explanation of what the term DOD means.
967. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
inquired about whether the Government is going to remain in line with the
ratios set up the Protocols for Effective Financial Management.
968. The HMFU responded in the affirmative.
Page 246 of 260
969. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
asked if the Government would be able to maintain the ratios if it were to
accept the loan guarantee from the UK.
970. The HMFU responded in the negative.
971. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
asked if the Government would be able to maintain the ratios if it were to
accept the loan guarantee from the UK four or five years into the future.
972. The HMFU responded in the negative.
973. The FS noted that the public debt figure stated in the 2019 budget is guided by
the Medium-Term Fiscal Plan which outlines the plan for borrowing up until
the year 2021 that would keep the Government in line with the ratios outlined
in the Protocols for Effective Financial Management.
974. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
thanked the FS his team for the work that they are doing given the constraints
that they are faced with.
975. The Chairman thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee and they
were dismissed.
Page 247 of 260
HEAD 321 DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICE CAPITAL
Present:
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(PSDGO)
Mrs. Helen Seymour Acting Deputy Secretary, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(Ag.DSDGO)
Mrs. Kara Penn-Stoutt Finance and Planning Officer, Deputy Governor‟s Office
(FPODGO)
976. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
977. The PSDGO indicated that there was no presentation and would entertain
questions from Members.
978. There was a question posed to the PSDGO enquiring whether the National
Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) was funded through the CDB loan.
The PSDGO responded that the NEOC was the first project that was launched
under the CDB loan. She further added that they had already passed through
the consultancy phase and the project was presently out to tender for
construction. The funding listed in the Budget is for the construction of the
building.
979. The Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District commended
the PSDGO and her team for the work done during the transition of the new
electoral process and stated it was a well-executed and efficient process.
Page 248 of 260
980. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Committee.
Page 249 of 260
HEAD 322 PREMIER’S OFFICE CAPITAL
Present:
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro Acting Permanent Secretary, Premier‟s Office
(Ag.PSPO)
Mr. Jamal Jones Finance and Planning Officer, Premier‟s Office
(FPOPO)
981. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
982. The Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Member for the
Ninth District stated that the Premier‟s Office was now responsible for alternative
energy and inquired what was in the budget regarding alternative energy.
983. The Ag.PSPO reported that in the capital expenditure, there was currently no
funding in the budget for alternative energy. It was their understanding and
expectation that whatever resources that were available under the previous holder of
that portfolio would be transferred in this budget cycle. The Ag.PSPO further
added that until the Premier‟s Office could get a better understanding of the
portfolio item, it was difficult at this time to put a substantive budget to that
portfolio subject.
984. There being no further questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for
appearing before the Standing Finance Committee.
Page 250 of 260
HEAD 323 MINISTRY OF FINANCE CAPITAL
Present:
Mr. Glenroy A. Forbes Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance (FS)
Ms. Alva McCall Deputy Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance
(DFS)
Mrs. Maria Smith - Thomas Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Finance (FPOMOF)
985. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the proceedings and asked them to state
their names and positions for the record.
986. The panel introduced themselves and indicated that there was no presentation
to be made.
987. The Member for the Third District asked if the MOF had plans to do anything
substantial under their capital budget.
988. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
referred to the Draft B Budget Estimates for 2019 and inquired what is meant
the Project Management Development.
989. The FS indicated that the Project Management Development refers to funds
that are under the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Loan from the Caribbean
Development Bank (CDB).
990. The Minister for Health and Social Development and Territorial Member
asked if the funds under the Project Management Development could be used
for any project.
Page 251 of 260
991. The FS indicated that the funds have to be used for specific projects under the
loan agreement including the project supervision being done by the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
992. The Member for the Third District asked if $123,000 can be moved from
under the Project Management Development to go towards the BVI Post
Office.
993. The FS responded in the negative and stated that doing so would breach the
terms of the contract with the CDB.
994. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
inquired about the restrictions on spending and asked that the FS find a way to
place them in in the 2019 Budget.
995. The FS assured the Committee that the MOF will be able to control spending
on both the recurrent and capital sides of the budget.
996. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District stated
that he would like to have restrictions placed on all votes in the budget that
does not have to deal with salaries, personal emoluments and utilities. He
emphasised that the Budget will be closely monitored so that more funds can
be saved to be reallocated to address the needs of the peoeple.
997. The FS assured the Committee and the Honourable Premier that restrictions
will be placed on any new positions, unfilled positions, and all capital
spending.
Page 252 of 260
998. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
thanked the panel for appearing before the Committee and reminded them that
this is a transitional budget.
Page 253 of 260
HEAD 324 MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LABOUR AND
IMMIGRATION CAPITAL
Present:
Mr. Ronald Smith Berkeley Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (PSNRLI)
Mr. Joseph Smith Abbott Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources,
Labour and Immigration (DSNRLI)
Ms. Louann Hodge Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Natural
Resources, Labour and Immigration (Ag.
DSNRLI)
Ms. Linette Rabsatt Acting Human Resources Manager, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
(Ag.HRMNRLI)
Mr. Norval Young Cadastral Information Manager, Ministry of
Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration
999. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked persons to state their names and positions for the record.
1000. The PSNRLI gave a short presentation. He highlighted two significant
projects initiatives that would be a huge impact on the local economy in
terms of job creation.
1001. The PSNRLI informed the Committee that back in the early 1970 a company
by the name of Old Fort Limited received permission to reclaim
approximately 6.6 acres of land going towards West End, this also included
about 5.5 acres of land on the land side. This area is currently known as the
Dungeon but, the correct name is Fort Purcell.
1002. He stated that this company was acquired by new owners and they were in
the process of doing reclamation. He informed the Committee that at the
time of the first owners an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was not
Page 254 of 260
required. The Ministry has since requested that the EIA be done by the now
owners who are complying. The new proprietors has since approached
Government to reacquire the 5.5 acres of land side land. This area has a
significant amount of ruins on it and with the historical importance this
would enhance the Tourism product.
1003. The PSNRLI stated that Ministry has since gotten in contacted with Dr.
Angel Smith a local historian who has agreed to work with the Ministry to
maintain the historical significance of this area. This area would be of great
significance addition to the tourism product. The proprietors have accepted
something to substitute this land for another. The Ministry is in the process
of locating a piece of land for the substitution. The PSNRLI stated that
currently the Ministry was in the process of developing an information paper
for Cabinet to formally inform Members of the Ministry‟s plans and seek
their permission to move forward.
1004. The PSNRLI stated that second initiative was the Blue Economy. The Blue
Economy and the Ministry has had a brief meeting with the RDA and the
UNDP Representative that is on the Island locally. The PSNRLI felt that
this area was where a lot of jobs in the future would certainly be coming
from. This area is called the Blue Economy which covers a very wide range
and promote economic growth from proper disposal of solid waste to proper
governance of our Ocean.
1005. The PSNRLI stated that an iterative process has been started with FCO so
that at some point hopefully by the end of this year or certainly by next year
the Ministry is hoping to have the Territory fisheries water declared as
Territory Economic Zone which would provide the support for the Blue
Economy. He stated that a paper would be put forward to Cabinet as an
information paper which would outline the initiative that surrounds this idea
as approval is sought to move forward.
Page 255 of 260
1006. The Member for the Eighth District inquired about the fisherman dock in the
East End/Fat Hog‟s Bay Harbour. He said that part of this project has always
been a dock facility for the Red Bay fishermen and that there has always
been funding under this section. He inquired if the dock in the East End/Fat
Hog‟s Bay would be built this year and asked the PSNRLI if the contract for
this project was not signed since 2011.
1007. The PSNRL confirmed that the contract was signed in 2011, but the project
was not budgeted for this year budget cycle.
1008. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
inquired what was the cost of the East End/ Long Look Project.
1009. The PSNRLI stated that the approximate cost of the East End/ Long Look
Project was three hundred and eighty-five thousand dollars ($385,000.00),
however, the project was never funded.
1010. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District and
the Leader of the Opposition and Member for the Eighth District requested
to be provided at a later time before the Budget Debate with a copy of a full
report on total cost break-down of the Brandywine Bay Project from the time
it started until now with how much moneys were spent to date.
1011. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Agriculture,
Fisheries, Youth Affairs and Sports and Member for the Seventh District
stated that while in the past there were difficulties seeing what was
happening at Brandywine Bay, presently and in the future there is a very
good plan going forward for a development at Brandywine Bay that will be
essential to the tourism product.
Page 256 of 260
1012. The Minister for Health and Social Development and the Deputy Speaker
was in full support for the fisherman dock in Red Bay and any
accommodation or reallocation that could be used to afford this project they
would support in it to the fullest.
1013. The Premier and Minister of Finance and Member for the First District
thanked the panel for their appearance and presentation and reminded them
that this is a transitional budget.
Page 257 of 260
HEAD 326 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
CAPITAL
Present:
Ms. Petrona Davies Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (PSHSD)
Ms. Natalie Fahie-Smith Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Ms. Tasha Bertie Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Health and Social
Development (DSHSD)
Dr. Irad Potter Chief Medical Officer (FPOPO)
Mr. Clayton O‟Neal Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of Health and
Social Development (FPOHSD)
Mr. Duane Fraites Assistant Project Manager (PHSD)
1014. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record.
1015. There being no questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
Page 258 of 260
HEAD 327 MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION, WORKS AND
UTILTIES CAPITAL
Present:
Mr. Jeremy Hodge Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (PSTWU)
Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Ms. Haley Trott Acting Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Transportation,
Works and Utilities (Ag.DSTWU)
Mr. Clifford George Finance and Planning Officer, Ministry of
Transportation, Works and Utilities
Mr. Giovanni Herbert Information Officer, Ministry of Transportation, Works
and Utilities
1016. The Chairman welcomed the panel to the Standing Finance Committee and
asked that they state their names and positions for the record. The Chairman
informed the panel that due to time constraints they should circulate their
presentations.
1017. There being no questions, the Chairman thanked the panel for appearing
before the Committee.
Page 260 of 260
APPENDIX
Dates and Times of Deliberations of the Standing Finance Committee to examine Draft
Estimates for the Year 2019
Date of Meetings Commenced Concluded
5th April, 2019 12:39 p.m. 6:33 p.m.
16th April, 2019 9:49 a.m. 9:12 p.m.
17th April, 2019 2:11 p.m. 10:38 p.m.
18th April, 2019 10:57 a.m. 12:06 a.m.
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